Dr Work

6 September 2008

Q My mum and dad don't want me to start an apprenticeship. They think I should do something better and stay at school until year 12. I'm in year 10 now and want to get a job as an apprentice motor mechanic at the end of this year. What do you think?

A I have two brothers. One went to TAFE and he has worked all his life as a motor mechanic. He has been very successful in his career.

My other brother went to university, completed multiple degrees and has built a professional working life in the government and private sectors. And he has been very successful in his career.

They have achieved much in their working and personal lives and I'm proud of them both.

The bottom line is that they looked honestly at their interests and where they wanted to go with their careers. Their jobs differ widely but both chose careers they really enjoy and have worked hard at being as good as they could be in their fields.

If you've checked what it means to be a motor mechanic, taken a look at alternatives and made an honest assessment about whether it's right for you, give it your best shot. As with all trades, being a motor mechanic can be a great job. If you genuinely love cars and have a passion for the industry, aim to be the best motor mechanic you can be.

If, however, your career choice is based on looking for easy options, such as just wanting to quit school because it's challenging, you really do need to stop and be honest with yourself.

To find out more about careers as a motor mechanic check these websites: Australian Apprenticeships (www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au) and Group Training Australia (www.gtaltd.com.au).

You could also try chatting to service managers at good motor vehicle repair centres to help get your mind around what you really want to do.

Q I am unemployed and want to get the Certificate IV in training and assessment. How do I do this?

A You can take the certificate through the Government-funded Productivity Places Program.

This certificate can open doors to a range of careers in training and could help land you a great job. You'll develop skills, such as how to facilitate group-based and individual learning, evaluate training sessions and develop learning programs.

As I have been reporting for the past few months, there are good opportunities for training though this program and it's free.

Basic eligibility requirements are that you are not studying full-time, you are unemployed and you want the training to help you get a job.

See www.productivityplaces.deewr.gov.au/job-seekers or phone the Australian Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations on 133 873.

If you have a question for Dr Work, email doctorwork@mycareer.com.au


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