My Change in Uniforms……. I’m thrilled to be making my first contribution to the Progressive Training Newsletter, having started four months ago as Progressive Trainings’ new Trainer / Facilitator. Although I have big shoes to fill, after taking over from Josh Phillips, I welcome the challenges ahead of me. A little bit about me…. I grew up in Geraldton and am proud to call it home. I am married and have three beautiful children with my wife Christine. For the past 12 years I have served with the Australian Regular Army and in 2013, was fortunate enough to be given a 12 month posting back to my hometown as the full time Training Sergeant at the Geraldton Army Reserve Training Depot. The opportunity to work for Progressive Training presented itself in March 2014 and the timing could not have been better, as my posting in Geraldton was drawing to an end. Wanting to remain in Geraldton and “settle” after having had postings all over the country and multiple trips overseas, the decision to re-join civilian life was made (after a successful job interview with Progressive Training and much discussion with my ever supportive wife of course…). During my time with the Army, I was able to gain invaluable experience in a number of fields but my interest kept pushing me towards managerial roles with a focus on work, health and safety. It is because of this interest that I enrolled in external courses to enhance my professional development. I now bring with me several qualifications which include Diplomas in Management and Work, Health and Safety, among other things. These two areas will be my focus whilst at Progressive Training and I’m looking forward to the opportunity of being able to utilise my skills and experience for both our existing clients and for new clients in the future. I would like to finish by saying how excited I am to be part of the Progressive team and will be welcoming any chance to meet our clients’ training needs. Jason Driscoll |
And now all the way from Sardegna........ Hi, my name is Valentina Strazzera - I was born in Sardegna, Italy, and moved to Geraldton in 2010. I now call Australia home, especially as I will be getting my citizenship at the end of this year. I speak fluent Italian, French, English, also a little bit of Spanish. If you need a translation I will be more than happy to assist. My key responsibilities as Client Services/Training Resources Coordinator are developing resources for our trainers, assisting all staff with their duties, liasing with clients and managing our student database and records. Apart from working within Progressive Training, I am a part time barista at Dome Café, where I have been working for the past 2 years as a supervisor. Drop in and see me if you want to taste the best coffee in town! I am also a soccer coach for the under 9s group for Rovers Soccer Club, for which I also play as a striker in the Geraldton Women’s League. Prior to working at Progressive Training, I worked in the Geraldton hospitality industry and as an Italian language teacher for the Midwest Multicultural Association. Before moving to Australia, I worked in the Sport and Recreation industry as a Swimming, basketball and soccer teacher to kids and adults; as an Italian and second language teacher at University; as a lifesaver; and as a restaurant manager. I also played soccer at a professional level and have been a basketball player for 15 years. My goal is to become a school teacher, because I want to help the children to reach their potential and hence achieve fulfilment in their adult lives. As you might have noticed I have also been involved in and around sports my entire life and sometimes I even dream of a career in the Defence Forces or anywhere I can keep doing what I love most and that keeps me alive! However, I am very excited about being part of Progressive Training team and hope I can make a positive contribution to the business. It is a pleasure to work with all our corporate clients and partners - I will make the most of my time here and I will give it my very best shot to serve you all to the best of my ability. Ciao! Valentina |