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Claire Miller at work with On-Trac Ag.

Living, working and studying in a regional community, Claire Miller is a bright young Indigenous woman with a passion for agricultural mechanics. Thanks to a grant from CEF Orange & District and a VERTO CEF Scholarship, she is one step closer to her dream. We are proud to share her story and belief in diversity in the workplace, enabling her to ‘Be a Voice for Generations‘ during National Reconciliation Week.

Local Foundation:
CEF Orange & District

Course:
Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology

Employer:
On-Trac Ag

What does receiving your local CEF grant (CEF Orange & District) plus the VERTO scholarship mean to you?

Receiving the local CEF Orange & District grant and the VERTO scholarship has given me the opportunity to purchase the tools and toolbox needed for my job without any financial stress. It is assisting with costs while I’m away at TAFE, such as accommodation and travel. Also, with the grant and scholarship they are providing many services and support to aid me in my studies and apprenticeship, such as a buddy project where there is someone regularly checking in to see how I am doing.

Why have you chosen to do you Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology and your apprenticeship with On-Trac Ag?

In year 10 when asked what I wanted to do after school, I didn’t have a clear plan. I have always been interested in the agricultural industry. I did some work experience in a couple of jobs and really enjoyed the time I spent at On-Trac Ag. They offered me a trial late last year and I began the apprenticeship early this year.

I wanted to prove that you can do any job you wish if you are persistent and willing to learn, it doesn’t matter who you are.

What is the best thing about doing an apprenticeship?

The best thing about an apprenticeship is being able to leave school and begin working. With an apprenticeship it allows you to work full time while going to TAFE and studying the necessary concepts that you use everyday at work.

An apprenticeship gives you the knowledge and experience needed when you’re fully qualified to do the job efficiently and effectively.

As an apprentice there is someone that is always willing to guide you and teach you new things every day.

VERTO is an award winning, not-for-profit organisation assisting businesses and individuals with all their apprenticeship, employment and training needs.
verto.org.au

What do you hope to do once you finish your study?

Once I have finished my studies at TAFE and my apprenticeship, I hope to continue working at On-Trac Ag in the workshop and out in the field. I would also like to leave for a while and work on a property using my knowledge from the workshop and using it in everyday farming life.

We are sharing your story during Reconciliation Week – what does this year’s theme ‘Be a Voice for Generations’ mean to you?

This year’s theme, ‘Be A Voice For Generations’ is a great opportunity to have greater diversity in the workplace, community we live in and in our everyday lives.

I also want to show that a female can succeed in her chosen field in a male-based industry, regardless of culture and sex.

You can read more about Claire’s scholarship and our partnership with VERTO HERE.

Reconciliation Week 2023 Logo

National Reconciliation Week – Act today for a reconciled tomorrow.

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2023, Be a Voice for Generations, encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives – where we live, work and socialise.

For more information on Reconciliation Week, visit:
www.reconciliation.org.au/our-work/national-reconciliation-week/

Nicole

Author Nicole

CEF Engagement & Development

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