A proud Wamba Wamba woman, Carol grew up in regional Victoria. She spent her final year of high school planning a pathway towards a future in the trades, a hands-on career where she could channel her creative energy.
Building and construction had always interested her, making carpentry a natural choice. She saw it as an opportunity to work with tools, create something tangible, and develop skills she could use throughout her life. One of Carol's life-long goals is to one day build her own home.
Carol's plan led her to a Certificate II in Building and Construction Pre-Apprenticeship - Carpentry and Joinery Shopfitting Stairbuilding 22614VIC at Melbourne Polytechnic. She knew she could study while gaining practical experience and confidence.
Melbourne Polytechnic in particular, provided everything she needed in one place. From pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships to supportive teachers, job boards, catch-ups and networking opportunities. There was access to real-world training that aligned with Carols career goals right from day one.
Rather than spending years studying theory before entering the workforce, Carol was able to gain hands-on experience and learn by doing, which suited her learning style perfectly.
Starting a pre-apprenticeship came with its challenges.
Like many students entering a new field, Carol initially found some aspects of the course unfamiliar. Reading floor plans and learning how to use power tools felt daunting. However, with the support from teachers and plenty of practice, those challenges gradually became strengths.
Looking back, Carol says one of the most valuable parts of her experience was learning the sorts of practical tips and tricks that often only come from experienced tradespeople. These lessons help her build confidence not only in her technical abilities but also in her problem-solving skills.
One of her proudest achievements was building her first wall frame.
At first, the plans seemed overwhelming, and she doubted whether she could do it. But after gathering the materials and carefully following the process, she did it.
"When I finished my first wall frame, I was really proud of myself," she says. "I knew I was another step closer to doing my dream job."
For Carol, studying at Melbourne Polytechnic was more than learning a trade.
Throughout her time on campus, she made friends, developed skills she can use in everyday life and discovered just how much she is capable of achieving.
When reflecting, Carol realised one of the most memorable moments was realising how far she had come since day one. The growth wasn't only in her technical skills. It was also in her confidence, independence, and belief in her own abilities.
Receiving the Melbourne Polytechnic Outstanding Indigenous Student of the Year Award was another unexpected milestone. Carol was surprised by the recognition, particularly as she felt many of her classmates were doing amazing work too. But receiving the award reminder her that her effort didn't go unnoticed.
"It feels good when you get noticed for something you enjoy doing," she says.
Although carpentry remains her passion, Carol is keeping her options open.
After completing her carpentry pre-apprenticeship, she went on to study bricklaying and plans to begin a plumbing pre-apprenticeship. Exploring multiple trades is helping Carol discover which pathway suits her best before committing to a full apprenticeship.
Her goal is to continue studying at Melbourne Polytechnic, gain experience across different trades, and eventually pursue an apprenticeship in the area she enjoys most.
If you're curious about creating a trades pathway like Carol, learn more about apprenticeships and traineeships at Melbourne Polytechnic.