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Partnership assists ex-ADF members transitioning to civilian life

TAFE Queensland and Soldier On are proud to have officially partnered to support Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families as they transition into civilian life.

The collaborative efforts will extend on Soldier On’s existing programs which include health and well-being services, employment programs, learning opportunities and participation activities to include guided professional educational pathways and career outcomes through a range of TAFE Queensland courses.

TAFE Queensland has already established a strong relationship with ex-ADF members through the TAFE Queensland Transition to Civi Street program which matches existing skill sets with educational opportunities to create new meaningful civilian career paths. Since the initiative was launched in 2020, over 200 ex-ADF members have been guided to find new career pathways in a range of industries including electrotechnology, manufacturing, horticulture, fitness, nursing, engineering, and project management.

Brisbane-based advanced manufacturing and engineering company, PFi Aerospace recognise the unique skill sets, aptitude, and culture that ex-defence members are able to offer employers. PFi Aerospace have already employed six ex-ADF members into Trades Assistant roles and hope to welcome more ex-ADF members from the Transition to Civi Street program and Solider On engagement in the future.

PFi Aerospace Education Manager, Britt Cleary said the company has been extremely impressed with the skill levels and industry knowledge that Ex-ADF members possess and bring into the organisation.

“Ex-ADF members have impeccable reliability and great attitudes throughout all facets of their learning and the projects they have been completing. They have transferable skill sets and industry-based knowledge which has allowed them to easily upskill and work alongside our engineers,” Ms Cleary said.

TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech General Manager John Tucker said the partnership with Soldier On is another important initiative to support ex-ADF members and their families who have made significant contributions to our nation.

“For many current and ex-ADF members the transition back into civilian life can present some challenges and TAFE Queensland is extremely proud to be able to provide professional guidance and educational pathways as these members take the next step in their careers,” Mr Tucker said.

“Our ex-ADF Defence Solutions Officers understand the skills, language, experience, and knowledge that ex-ADF members have gained through their military service and are able to translate these skill sets into educational and employment pathways that lead to meaningful civilian employment opportunities.”

“In the past six months since the TAFE Queensland and Soldier On partnership was formed, over 50 ex-ADF members have been assisted by TAFE Queensland to find both educational and career outcomes and we look forward to assisting more men and women as they transition into civilian life,” said Mr Tucker.

Soldier On CEO, Ivan Slavich said that Soldier On are incredibly grateful for the support provided by TAFE Queensland.

“Through this partnership, TAFE Queensland acknowledges the diverse skill sets that our veterans acquire during their time with the Australian Defence Force and the value that these skill sets hold. This partnership will greatly assist Soldier On in our mission to help serving and ex-serving veterans and their families to thrive,” said Mr Slavich.