‘Just go for it' is the motto that Bellingen locals and TAFE NSW graduates Amelia Burley and Elly Bateup live by after pursuing employment opportunities in the business administration sector.  

27-year-old Amelia started studying a Bachelor of Teaching and decided it wasn’t right for her, opting to pursue a career to better suit her young family in business administration. Now she’s encouraging other workers thinking of a change to “just go for it” after securing her dream job as an Office Administrator at the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium.

“I initially pursued business administration for the job opportunities and transferrable skills you learn and I’ve since found out I really love it. I love dealing with people and I love being the first point of contact for people coming in.

“TAFE NSW has great industry connections and flexible study options so I knew I’d be able to fit in both study and work. I also knew I’d have an excellent chance of getting a good job once I completed my studies,” Amelia said.

18-year old Elly decided she wanted to learn practical business and computing skills at TAFE NSW to ensure she is well-equipped to find her feet in the evolving technological workforce, which is now in full swing as the COVID-19 crisis continues to change the way businesses operate online. 

Given the growing complexity and the globalization of the economy, companies are increasingly in need of skilled, qualified administrative personnel who can help them coordinate their administrative processes, Elly said getting a job in the industry was as easy as walking in the door once she was qualified.

“I was initially hired as an Office Administrator and I have this year been promoted to Finance Coordinator. If it wasn’t for TAFE NSW, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” she said. 

“My teacher was amazing and she was always there to give me extra help if needed.”

Both Elly and Amelia agree the perks of the job are listening to the saxophone while they work and getting the chance to take a peek at concerts on at the venue.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher Anne Hellou said Amelia and Elly’s broadened computing skillsets made them attractive picks among employers, especially now the nation is seeing a shift to online ways of working. 

“Elly and Amelia are a great example of how TAFE NSW is equipping students with the skills industries are looking for. The demand for employees is skyrocketing, now is the time to get qualified.”

To find out more about studying business administration at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au, or call 131 601.