Wodonga Senior Secondary College Year 11 student Blake Reid is steering his career in the right direction becoming the first-ever School-Based Apprentice at local industry leader DOC Trucks.
After completing several hands-on work experience placements including time spent working on heavy highway trucks Blake’s passion and commitment stood out. With the support of WSSC Careers Advisor Garry, he landed a placement with DOC Trucks, impressing the team so much that they offered him their first SBAT opportunity in the company’s history.
Thanks to a smooth transition supported by Shane Crispin (Head Start SBAT Coordinator) and Danny Howard (Apprenticeship Support Australia), Blake now works one day a week at DOC Trucks while studying a Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology through GOTAFE. He continues to balance his school and training commitments while gaining real-world skills and earning an income.
Blake says he loves the hands-on work and the family vibe in the workshop. DOC Trucks Manager Dylan O’Connor shared, “It’s great to have Blake on board the team has really embraced him. Programs like Head Start SBAT are a great way to build the next generation of our workforce.”
Huge thanks to the DOC Trucks team for creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment and congratulations to Blake for seizing this opportunity and leading the way!
For information on putting your young person’s career on the road via a School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT), please contact Head Start Coordinator, Shane Crispin
M: 0476 076 258
E: shane.crispin@education.vic.gov.au