Helen's story highlights how learning at any stage of life can open doors to new opportunities. Through the Career Transition Assistance (CTA) program, Helen gained the confidence, skills and support to explore a new career path and take positive steps towards her future.
Exploring a new direction
After 14 years working within state government, Helen was ready for a change. She wanted to explore a new and fulfilling career path. Helen enrolled in the CTA program and began exploring her interests and identifying opportunities that aligned with her goals.
Building confidence through learning
Through CTA, Helen discovered a passion for hospitality, particularly cooking within the aged care sector. With support from her trainer, Mark, she explored what a career opportunity in the industry could look like, gained insight into employer expectations, and identified pathways to help achieve her goals. This guidance gave Helen the confidence to take the next step, enrolling in a Certificate II in Cookery and setting her on the path to a new career.
Gaining practical support
As part of the CTA program, Helen received one-on-one support to better understand the training requirements and how the qualification aligned with her career aspirations. CTA also helped her tailor her resume for a new industry, highlighting her transferable skills and the qualities valued by hospitality employers.
Looking ahead
As she completes the CTA program, Helen has a much clearer sense of direction and renewed confidence about her future. She is looking forward to beginning a career in hospitality and continuing her learning journey as she prepares for employment in a new industry.
"[My trainer] has been very supportive and encouraging and his knowledge and experience of this space have been invaluable."
Helen
The value of lifelong learning
Helen's story demonstrates that it is never too late to learn new skills, pursue a different career path or discover new opportunities. During Adult Learners Week, her experience serves as a reminder that lifelong learning can help people build confidence, adapt to change and create a pathway towards their goals. Through CTA, Helen transformed uncertainty into a practical plan for the future and took meaningful steps towards a new career.
More information
Career Transition Assistance (CTA) is designed to help people 45 years and over, to improve their confidence and skills to become more competitive in the local labour market.
Do you need help getting started? Individuals in Workforce Australia Online can sign up for Career Transition Assistance by:
- searching Workforce Australia Online for courses that provide assistance for individuals 45 years and over
- contacting the Digital Services Contact Centre on 1800 314 677 or email digitalservices@dewr.gov.au.
Individuals with an employment services provider can talk to their provider about a referral to a suitable course. If you are not registered with an employment service but would like to know more about what CTA can offer, you can visit or contact your local Career Transition Assistance provider.
Learn more
- Visit Career Transition Assistance
- Visit Adult Learners Week