Luke balances service, study and family with online learning

Now an active member of the Royal Australian Navy Reserve, Luke juggles his service commitments alongside civilian work, study, and raising his young family.

Throughout his career in defence, maritime and aeromedical industries, Luke built a reputation as a versatile operations and team leader.

His roles have spanned Defence Force Recruiting, LifeFlight Australia and operational leadership on board the Royal Australian Navy’s ships, including helping commission HMAS Canberra III.

Whether coordinating complex missions, engaging stakeholders, or managing critical, time-sensitive tasks, Luke honed his strengths in teamwork, strategic planning and resource coordination.

“I’ve always loved working as part of a team, all striving for a common goal, and the Navy gave me experiences and friendships I’ll carry for life,” Luke said.

“But now, as a father, I need stability to come home every night to my family and be there for my son.”

Transitioning into the Navy Reserve gave him that balance, alongside a new civilian role as a Graduate Program Coordinator at industrial real estate agency JLL.

With a clear goal of advancing into project management, Luke enrolled to study TAFE Queensland’s Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) online, to formalise his extensive practical experience and fast-track his career. 

“With a two-year-old at home and the need to balance work and Reserve duties, I wanted a qualification that would give me flexibility and help me advance my career quickly,” he says.

The flexible delivery of TAFE Queensland’s online learning made that possible, with its easy-to-use Connect platform allowing Luke to fit studying into his busy schedule.

Guided every step of the way by highly experienced industry professionals, Luke is gaining the confidence and expertise needed to succeed in project management.

The self-paced learning allows him the flexibility to balance his studies with family and work commitments.

“I work three days in the Navy Reserve and two at JLL, then do an hour or two of study in the morning or evening when my son is asleep,” he explained.

“Studying online means I can study anywhere, anytime, balancing my learning around work and family. Having recorded lectures and online resources makes it all possible.”

“The online resources are all in one place, and my teacher, Terrena Hooper, has been fantastic at explaining everything clearly and is always available when I need support.”

With the course giving Luke the specialised knowledge and advanced skills he needs to manage project scopes, project costs, risk and quality, he’s already applying what he’s learning in real time.

“I’m using the project management skills I’ve developed through the course every day in both my civilian job and with the Navy, which shows how practical and relevant the training is.”

Looking ahead, Luke is confident that his qualifications will open doors for him to achieve his career goal of securing a full-time project manager role with JLL.

“This course has given me a clear understanding of how to manage projects effectively, and I’m already seeing how to apply these skills in real life,” he said.

With the backing of TAFE Queensland and a wealth of experience behind him, Luke is well on his way to navigating his next career horizon.

“If you can upskill quickly, practically and flexibly, and secure a great job outcome, why wouldn’t you? With effective time management and supportive teachers, studying online makes advancing your career achievable,” Luke concluded.