What inspired you to take on this role?
I started working in a public school for a bit of a ‘fill in’ job while I ran my own construction business. It wasn’t long before I was being brought into meetings with the executive staff to advise them on projects and buildings works. I have over 25 years’ experience in the construction industry and have worked as a project manager, so I was able to give them some valuable advice and work with them to achieve their goals. One thing led to another, and now here I am at Canberra College! I’ve been here for four years now and I can’t imagine going back. Our buildings are around 40 years old, so we’ve put a lot of work into maintaining and upgrading them since I’ve been here. I’m proud of Canberra College, it’s come so far in these last few years.
Can you explain what a typical day looks like for you?
Well, that’s one of the highlights of my job, the work I do here is so varied! On a typical day my team and I start by making sure the grounds are secure, clean and tidy and that the school is ready for everybody as they start to arrive in the morning. My work encompasses everything from construction works, to maintenance and upkeep, to just providing that helping hand to the school community anywhere that I’m needed. I’m the one they call if the lights go out, or if there’s a water leak during a storm. On one occasion I’ve had to help a kid who got stuck in the fence – luckily that doesn’t happen often!
Can you tell me something about your job that people may not realise?
Often people don’t realise that the school holidays are the busiest times for us, it’s when we can get the most work done. Last school holidays we used the two weeks to completely transform the Mathematics staff room, you should have seen the teachers when they walked in on the first day back, they couldn’t believe their eyes! We always start preparing before the holiday, we get our ducks in a row, then get out there and get it done.
The most rewarding thing about your job
While there’s always that pride in standing back and looking at something you’ve renewed, I think what I love most about this job are the people that I get to work with - the staff here are the heart of this school. I went from not knowing anyone when I first got here 4 years ago, to making some great friendships and working alongside some of these great people, who care so deeply about their job and each other. I have a lot of pride in this school and I always work hard to ensure it’s a safe, warm and happy place for all the kids and staff.