Bev revs up automotive careers

For the past 20 years, Bev Williams has helped more than 1,000 students tackle the big question of “what next?” as they complete their foundational studies and plan their next move.

As an automotive industry placements and pathways coordinator at Kangan Institute, Bev is a seasoned veteran in connecting students to work and apprenticeship opportunities so they can get their foot in the door.

Her work behind-the-scenes has not gone unnoticed with Bev recently recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) on the King’s Birthday 2023 Honours List.

Simply doing a job she loves, Bev said the accolade was unexpected.

“I feel really humbled; I wasn’t expecting it at all. I’m just somebody going about doing my day-to-day job,” Bev said.

“I’m lucky because I really love my job; the little achievements when you see that somebody has got a job or apprenticeship.”

Based at Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence in Docklands, the majority of students supported by Bev have completed pre-apprenticeship courses in automotive and are wanting to find a job in industry.

More recently, she is focusing on connecting international students to employment across Melbourne.

“The value of my role is outcomes. For students, it’s giving them an outcome. Some young people have no idea how to apply for an apprenticeship or what to do,” Bev said. 

“I work with all of them one on one, work out if they want to go to a placement or apprenticeship, and help them with resumes and cover letters, tying in with our Skills and Jobs Centre.

“I connect them to opportunities within their area of interest, in areas like paint and panel, heavy and light vehicle, agriculture and so on.

“There is a lot of interest in light vehicles, mostly vehicle mechanics, although we are also trying to broaden the outlook of students and letting them know there are other options, like trucks, mobile plants and motorcycles.”

The employers who take on students on Bev’s recommendations range from manufacturers to dealerships and group training organisations. Bev says her work provides businesses with a handy recruitment tool.

“They can have students two, three days a week and trial the students to see if they are a good fit for the business. Students can also see what it’s like to work in the industry and what industry wants. It’s a good recruitment tool for businesses,” she shared.

Always receptive to the evolving needs of employers, Bev has observed a growing appreciation for mature age workers amongst employers – which she says is great news for people wanting to change careers and enter the automotive industry.

“The biggest thing I’ve noticed that’s changed a lot is that employers are now more open to mature age apprentices and workers. They can see the value of life experience, with mature people more ready and committed to their new career path,” Bev said.

“There are a lot of people who went on a path to please their parents or were employed in a different industry, who are now able to follow their passion.

“With technology changing all the time, there are many opportunities and pathways available in the automotive industry.”

The OAM is not Bev’s first accolade – she was also presented Women in Industry’s Social Leader of the Year Award in 2017.

Awards aside, Bev defines her success in being able to support people in their automotive journeys.

“I see my role as ‘a connector’.  The students are looking for a pathway and the employers are looking for staff – if I connect them, I’m successful,” she said.

The King’s Birthday 2023 Honours List recognised 1,192 Australians across community service, science and research, industry, sport, the arts and more who have demonstrated outstanding service or exceptional achievement.