From sparky apprentice to masseuse

Mitchell moved to Toowoomba to play semi-professional soccer and has called it home ever since. While studying an electrical apprenticeship at the time, he downed tools for his own hands and decided to change his career path.

"Eventually, I quit my apprenticeship, and then I studied the Diploma of Remedial Massage (HLT52015) at TAFE Queensland's Toowoomba campus. I had already done my personal training courses and then did massage as well - it just made sense," said Mitchell.

Mitchell made a habit of getting all his assignments done early, allowing him to finish the course in just under 12 months.

"I was working in a chiropractor clinic, so I just did my prac where I was working. I finished earlier, which was good."

"Since then I haven't really stopped. I worked in a few different clinics. I just kept going with it," he said.

Having been familiar with TAFE Queensland due to his electrical studies, it was a given that Mitchell would choose TAFE Queensland again to formalise his qualifications in massage.

"Doing my course with TAFE Queensland to formalise my qualifications meant that people could claim with their health funds," said Mitchell.

Talking with other students and teachers that have worked in the field, meant that learning was more collaborative, with a lot of practical learning.

"It was quite hands on, which was good. It was good to have a practical learning environment, not just sitting down and watching slide shows and things like that."

It's not just the technical and practical learning skills that Mitchell has acquired, but people skills such as interpersonal and communication techniques, that has assisted him with being comfortable talking and engaging with individuals.

'It's great meeting lots of different, interesting people. Naturally, with alternative health therapies, I suppose you just meet a lot of interesting people that are weird and wacky too. It's always fun!"

Remedial massage is an industry that is going to continue to change, grow and develop.

"It's almost like being a part of something changing and growing into the future ... more awareness of it. Studying remedial massage has given me a platform to be able to do that," he said.

Training with TAFE Queensland, Mitchell feels that if you apply yourself you can go wherever you want to go.

"I think as long as you've got a good attitude, it's all up to how you apply yourself and your attitude. The rest just falls into place," Mitchell finished.