From Ferris Wheel to Full-Time: Journey of Confidence Building Through Education

Celebrating Adult Learners Week with a real story of transformation through Career Transition Assistance

When Jofre was referred to Workforce Australia – Career Transition Assistance (CTA), delivered by ETC, he wasn’t sure it was the right fit.

After eight years working as a Ferris Wheel operator, he was struggling to secure full-time employment. He felt his age and the fact that English wasn’t his first language were holding him back.

That early doubt and negative thoughts didn’t last long. With the right support, Jofre’s experience became a shining example of confidence building through education.

Finding Support and Purpose

Peer Support That Sparks Confidence

Despite his initial doubts, Jofre found the Career Transition Assistance group at ETC Chermside to be incredibly supportive and he started developing confidence.

Together, the participants explored the hidden job market, shared contacts, and encouraged each other to think outside the box. His peers even suggested he had the qualities of a mentor or life coach, recognising his natural warmth and leadership.

Jofre shared real world stories of resilience and positivity, inspiring others while rediscovering his own strengths. This is a true reflection of how adult learning empowers individuals through shared experiences, practical support and positive relationships.

Building Confidence and Career Tools

Practical Tools for Modern Job Searching

During the program, Jofre received honest feedback on his resume — his transferable skills were buried and hard to spot. That feedback hit hard, but it sparked a turning point. He embraced the tools the Career Transition Assistance program offered, including:

• Using AI to craft an elevator pitch
• Making his resume ATS-friendly (Applicant Tracking System-friendly)
• Writing shorter, more effective cover letters
• Updating his Seek and Indeed profiles

By the final week of the program, Jofre had landed an interview with a local employer. Shortly after, he called with exciting news: he got the job—casual work with Cirque du Soleil events!

From One Interview to Twelve

Turning Skills Into Opportunities

Since completing Career Transition Assistance, Jofre has had 12 interviews — and received job offers from all of them. He even turned down two. Today, he works full-time across six event agencies, recently ticking off a bucket list item by working at the Gold Coast Surfing Tournament.

Nearly a year later, Jofre reached out to ETC again.

“Thank you for all the help you gave me when I really needed it. My life changed in a really good way. I am very grateful and happy about it. If you’re still running the program, I’d love to come back and share my experience. Sometimes sharing real stories brings hope,” he shared.

Giving Back and Inspiring Others

Becoming a Mentor Through Adult Learning

Jofre is now thriving — and ready to give back. He’s offered to speak to future Career Transition Assistance groups as a mentor and living proof of what’s possible when you embrace confidence building through education and take a chance on yourself!

Amazing work, Jofre!

Celebrating Real Stories of Adult Learners

Why Real Stories Matter During Adult Learners Week

Adult Learners Week is a time to celebrate the courage and growth of people like Jofre. His story shows that with the right support, learning can unlock new paths, build confidence, and change lives.

What is Career Transition Assistance?

Adult Learning That’s Nothing Like School

The Career Transition Assistance (CTA) program, delivered by ETC, is designed to support mature-aged job seekers (45+) by building confidence, improving digital literacy, and helping participants market their existing skills to employers and understand the local labour market.

And don’t worry — it’s nothing like going back to school.

CTA is about confidence building through education in a relaxed, small-group setting. You’ll be supported by a mentor who provides:

• Tailored guidance based on your goals with a clear career pathway plan
• Resume development and interview preparation
• Practical computer training and digital literacy support like how to apply for jobs online
• Encouragement and honest feedback to help you grow

You’ll also learn from others in the group — sharing experiences, building networks, and discovering new ways to approach your job search.

Whether you’re looking for more stable work or just need a boost in confidence, CTA helps you take the next step — with support that’s practical, personal, and empowering.

Career Transition Assistance Good News Stories

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  From Ferris Wheel to Full-Time: Journey of Confidence Building Through Education
  Celebrating Adult Learners Week with a real story of transformation through Career Transition Assistance When Jofre was referred to Workforce Australia – Career Transition Assistance (CTA), delivered by ETC, he wasn’t sure it was the right fit. After eight years working as a Ferris Wheel operator, he was struggling to secure full-time employment. He felt his age and… Read more: From Ferris Wheel to Full-Time: Journey of Confidence Building Through Education
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  Adult Learning Reignites Chris’s Confidence and Career Goals After 45
  Chris thought adult learning wouldn’t help — but the CTA program reignited his confidence and career goals after 45. Read his inspiring story.
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