This week we wanted to focus on our previous graduates who have progressed into permanent roles within the Vertech Group. Read more below to find out how Brenda and Josh have found their journey being a post grads…
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Name: Joshua Pere
Role: Project Coordinator
How long you’ve worked at Vertech: I started at Vertech on the 7th of November 2021. So roughly 22 Months.
Progression in your role (the role you started compared to where you are now):
When I first started as a graduate, I was very unfamiliar with how a office environment operates and intern the oil and gas field of work operates. I aimed at adapting my previous leadership and cooperation styles I’ve learnt throughout my time at university but also throughout the hospitality sector and put myself in positions in where I knew which would be challenging. Going from learning technical information relevant to the job, introducing myself to the clients, working closely with the management/operation team throughout my graduate time I was able to develop all skills which would allow me to develop confidence and the skills which are required to perform my job as project coordinator now.
Assistance of the managers and team around me were invaluable and I implore all up-and-coming graduates to reach out within their vital years of development as a graduate.
Do you feel like starting in a graduate role prepared you for a more senior role?:
Yes I do, whilst beginning within the graduate position, I was involved with various projects and opportunities to further develop my attributes which lead me to the position that I am now. Further developing both my communication but also my leadership skills were invaluable assets in the position I was given within the graduate role. Allowing myself to be vulnerable to failure also within my graduate years when bringing forward new innovative ideas to the team allowed me to develop my confidence within the position I am in now.
What advice would you give to someone seeking a graduate role?:
Advice I would give to up-and-coming graduates is to push beyond your comfort in all aspects of the role and enduring any failure you may potentially experience. Communication with peers, consulting with management, bringing up innovative ideas to your peers and management, anything which may be uncomfortable at the start will ensure your personal development is absolute. Also, do not be afraid to fail as it is normal and expected when coming into a new field fresh out of studying. Learn from your failures and develop on them.
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Name: Brenda Lee
Role: Senior Project Coordinator
How long you’ve worked at Vertech: 4 years and 9 months.
Progression in your role (the role you started compared to where you are now):
When I first joined Vertech in 2018, I was fortunate to have a seasoned project coordinator as my mentor. Under their guidance, I was able to build a rock-solid foundation upon which I could build my career. As time went on, I was seconded to INPEX, where I had the privilege of working closely with Senior Material, Corrosion and Inspection Engineers. Their wealth of knowledge and experience became invaluable as I honed my skills and gained deeper insights into the intricacies of our industry. Throughout my time at Vertech, I was in constant collaboration with Geo Oceans. I had a desire take on more significant responsibilities and yearned for a role where I could contribute in a more meaningful way. It was then that I transitioned into a Project Coordinator role at Geo Oceans. As a Senior Project Coordinator, I have now expanded my role to encompass more responsibilities, such as mentoring and training new graduates, as well as overseeing small-scale projects.
Do you feel like starting in a graduate role prepared you for a more senior role?:
The crucial lessons I learned during my early days at Vertech provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, allowing me to grow and succeed in my current position. I could confidently participate in client meetings and comprehend their specific requirements. Knowing how to ask the right questions and engage effectively in discussions became second nature to me. Starting in a graduate role with the guidance of a wonderful mentor had also prepared me for the transition to a more senior role. It inspired me to aspire to be the same kind of guiding figure for new graduates.
First, don’t be afraid to ask questions and be curious. Be an active listener, as it’s a valuable skill. Remember, success doesn’t come easily for everyone, but that’s okay. What matters most is your determination to keep trying and working through challenges.
If you think a graduate role could be for you, please email your CV to: hr@vertechgroup.com.au
