THE EVENT

Day two of the Appustralian Skills Excellence Forum was all about expanding horizons through the Up-Skilling activity. This unique event provided participants from various industries the chance to step out of their usual training routines and explore new, practical skills that complement their primary expertise.

Carpenters took on the challenge of learning the basics of welding. Under expert guidance, they mastered foundational techniques essential for many real-world tasks they encounter on the job. This hands-on experience broadened their capabilities, adding a valuable skill to their repertoire.

The visual merchandising participants had an exciting opportunity to collaborate with talented florists. Together, they crafted a stunning window display featuring RM Williams merchandise, generously provided by the iconic brand. This creative exercise not only enhanced their visual presentation skills but also fostered teamwork and innovation.

Painters delved into learning a new painting technique, expanding their artistic abilities and adding a fresh dimension to their craft. This session allowed them to experiment and refine their techniques, enhancing their versatility and creativity.

In total, 31 different skills had the opportunity for Up-Skilling.

The Up-Skilling activity was a resounding success, offering participants the chance to gain new skills that are not typically covered in their RTO training. By exploring these additional competencies, attendees are better prepared to meet diverse challenges in the workforce, making them more adaptable and proficient professionals.

The second day of the Australian Skills Excellence Forum culminated in a prestigious formal dinner at the iconic Adelaide Oval. Attendees were treated to an evening of inspiring speeches, delicious food, and excellent company.

We were honored by the presence of Blair Boyer MP, Minister for Education, Training, and Skills, Government of South Australia, who delivered an insightful address on the importance of skills development and training. South Australia Skills Commissioner Cameron Baker also shared his vision for the future of vocational education and training.

A highlight of the evening was the recognition of Harry Baker, a WorldSkills Australia Nationals Gold Medalist, who proudly received his Trade Certificate for his plumbing apprenticeship. His achievements underscored the value of dedication and hard work in mastering a trade.

Further enriching the evening, WorldSkills Australia CEO Trevor Schwenke and Chair of the Board Kevin Harris provided valuable perspectives on the organization's goals and the significance of skills excellence in Australia.

The dinner featured two compelling keynote speakers: Chris Blowes and Anton Andreacchino. Their engaging presentations captivated the audience, offering unique insights and inspiration.

As attendees enjoyed a their dinner, the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and celebration. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, reflect on the day's events, and anticipate the future of skills training in Australia.

Overall, the evening was a resounding success, filled with moments of pride, inspiration, and the joy of coming together to celebrate the best in skills excellence.

The third day of the Australian Skills Excellence Forum was dedicated to an enriching Conference Day, featuring a diverse lineup of speakers who addressed a wide array of topics relevant to today's workforce.

The day began with an engaging session by Lauren Clemett, a renowned personal brand speaker, who provided valuable insights into building and maintaining a strong personal brand. Her session empowered attendees with strategies to enhance their professional presence and stand out in their industries.

Next, Laura Sharrad, a successful business owner and MasterChef contestant, shared her entrepreneurial journey. Her talk highlighted the challenges and triumphs of running a business and offered practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the culinary world and beyond.

Annie Harvey took the stage to discuss workplace wellbeing and mental health. Her session underscored the importance of maintaining mental health in high-pressure environments and provided actionable tips for creating a healthier, more supportive workplace.

Peter Treseder from Australian Super provided an informative presentation on superannuation and financial planning, emphasising the importance of long-term financial security and effective planning for the future.

Jenn Donovan captivated the audience with her talk on marketing and AI for small businesses in 2024. She explored the latest trends and technologies that are transforming the marketing landscape, equipping small business owners with the tools to stay competitive and innovative.

Chris Blowes delved into the intricacies of developing quotes and job costings.  His session was particularly beneficial for attendees as it offered practical techniques, tips and tricks that covered the entire quoting process including talking to the prospective client through to developing a professional quote and the components that needed to be considered when constructing the quote.

Overall, Conference Day was a resounding success, providing participants with a wealth of knowledge and practical advice from industry experts. The diverse topics and dynamic speakers ensured that there was something valuable for everyone, making it a truly enriching experience for all attendees.