July 13th, 2017

July marks the annual celebration of World Chocolate Day.  Acknowledged on the 7 July, it has been 467 years since chocolate was first introduced to Europe. Celebrations on the day include the consumption of chocolate and chocolate centered treats.  One profession, that celebrates this international day widely, is that of the hospitality and food industry, particularly the baking and patisserie sectors, for whom sweet treats would not be the same without the indulgence of chocolate.

Morgan Clementson, national VET Alumni member, Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador and 2013 Australian Training Awards’ Australian Apprentice of the Year runner up, came to the profession later in life at the age of 27.  After previous careers in information technology, automotive and hospitality, Morgan decided to return to her true passion, baking.

Morgan completed two Certificate III one in Food Processing, Retail Baking- Combined and one in Food Processing, Cake and Pastry.  These two qualifications, along with her training with a broad range of environments  led her to her dream job as International Démonstrateur and Technical Advisor in Bakery for Puratos.

“Starting my apprenticeship gave me discipline, actually going to TAFE on time, also wearing a uniform and getting homework again in my mid-twenties! It gave me an understanding that if I really wanted to succeed I had to focus,” says Morgan.

Morgan says it is an “honour” to be an Ambassador for Australian Apprenticeships, “I believe life is not about finding yourself, it’s about creating yourself. By doing an Australian Apprenticeship, you are not only earning and learning, you are creating your future,” says Morgan.

National Skills Week held from 28 August to 3 September, is Australia’s pinnacle week for celebrating vocational education and training (VET) and provides the perfect opportunity to shine a light on careers in the food processing, baking and commercial cookery industries, as a pathway to a successful career for Australians of any age.

“Australia is currently experiencing skill shortages across a variety of food trade careers, with roles such as baker, chef, pastry cook, butcher and small goods maker, all needing to be filled.  If you have a passion for food, a career in one of these industry sectors may be a suitable fit for you.”

“The hospitality and food trades industry provides many benefits such as strong demand for roles, ability to travel with your profession, competitive salary and good opportunities for career growth,” says Kirstin Casey, General Manager at SkillsOne.

SkillsOne will be showcasing VET qualifications during National Skills Week from 28 August to 3 September 2017. During this week, Australia will highlight the breadth in career opportunities available through vocational education and training. To organise an event, or take part in the many events that can be found across the country, visit the National Skills Week website.

For further information on Morgan’s story, or other inspiration career success stories from the Australian Training Awards, VET Alumni program or the Australian Apprenticeships Ambassadors program, visit the Australian Training Awards website.

For more information please contact: Kirstin Casey (General Manager at SkillsOne)

Mobile: 0420 652 558 Email: kirstin.casey@skillsone.com.au

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