VET News

Inspirational VET Story

Over the years, travelling with her husband for work provided Judy with many opportunities for jobs, study and short courses. From dressmaker, hospital domestic, teacher’s aide, bank teller and day care mum to business manager and executive director, she has come full circle back to her first love — hairdressing.

And with her family-owned hair and beauty business in Toowoomba, Judy is now providing a positive work place for young people to complete their own hairdressing apprenticeships.

Now a qualified hairdresser, Judy said that she never imagined one day she would be an apprentice, but that all changed during a workplace visit from a TAFE Queensland South West teacher, Geoff Lingard. He was there to assist the trainees at Judy’s family-run salon, but he also encouraged to also sign up to do the training herself.

“I will be forever thankful to Geoff for encouraging me to take that first step and then inspiring me all the way to graduation,” she said

Judy said that having her daughter Kaylah as her manager, trainer and boss and made for a fascinating role reversal.

 “On days when I thought I just couldn’t go on, Kaylah packed my bag and said you are going even if I have to drag you there myself.

“I now have my Certificate III qualification in Hairdressing and a Diploma of Beauty Therapy; I am confident in running a business where I feel 100% knowledgeable in the decisions that need to be made,” Judy said.

While it wasn't always as is easy as her surname suggested, Judy said she was proud to reach her goal.

"Don't ever let anyone tell you you're too old to try something new.

“Know what your goals are and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t,” she said.

For information on how your business can benefit from training or apprenticeships visit training.qld.gov.au.

Date posted Apr 26, 2018