After two decades in the disability sector, Melinda Harris knew it was time for a shift. Her rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis served as a catalyst, prompting her to take a gap year to explore new possibilities. “Working in disability support and then being diagnosed with a disability myself became emotionally taxing,” she shared. “After 20 years, I knew I needed a change.”
Despite her decision, Melinda’s passion for helping others remained. She actively volunteered on charitable committees and played a significant role in organising the annual Royal Hobart Regatta for eight years.
Her journey with the IntoWork Group started when a friend connected her with FindStaff recruitment consultant Gary Hayden. He helped her secure casual and temporary in events and administration, where her knack for event management became evident, working at Blundstone Arena in Hobart, and taking on roles from usher to supervisor for cricket and AFL matches.
After a year of casual roles, Gary proposed Melinda join the team at Mas National as a temporary Contact Consultant, where she conducted visits with apprentices and trainees.
Melinda shared that having the opportunity to work in casual and temporary roles in the Education and Training sector enabled her to build new skills and see if the industry was right for her. “I gained further knowledge on the industry and learnt new IT systems, related skills and discovering more about the IntoWork group and their businesses,” she said.
Adding, “Seeing positive outcomes with trainees and apprentices is incredibly rewarding. It’s similar to my experience in disability work, where I witnessed individuals achieving their goals and making progress. It’s all about people, their aspirations, and working together towards positive outcomes.”
Her growing interest in the training sector quickly led to a referral within the Group, where she secured her current permanent role as a Trainee Client Support Officer at Work and Training with the Apprentice Employment Services team. The role was newly created, with the main responsibilities including supporting Apprentice Employment Consultants, conducting contact visits and providing backfill and administration support.
This experience reinforced her belief in the importance of exploring options and self-development, leading her to start a Certificate IV in Business with Work and Training.
Ultimately, Melinda values the supportive and collaborative environment at IntoWork, which has been instrumental in her career shift, skill enhancement and ongoing success.
Throughout the entire process, I felt genuinely supported and was offered opportunities to grow and develop within the Group,” Melinda shared.
“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given, from my time at Find Staff to my current role at Work and Training. Even though I work for Work and Training, I truly value the collaborative approach and support from staff in our sister companies.”