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Michelle CampbellChief Executive Officer “Don’t give up. The hard days are part of the journey.”
Michelle brings more than 17 years of leadership experience across government, private sector, and education environments, giving her a broad and practical understanding of workforce and industry needs. As CEO of Blue Dog Training, she leads with clarity, high expectations, and a strong people focused approach grounded in teamwork, growth, and accountability. Alongside her husband Nick, one of Blue Dog Training’s first apprentices, Michelle is a co-owner of a successful construction business. This long-standing connection to the construction industry has given her a deep understanding of how skills-based pathways create real outcomes. Her strategic insight and breadth of experience are key assets, guiding Blue Dog Training’s direction and long term impact. |
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Brad DeasDirector “Back yourself and have a go.”
Brad began his carpentry apprenticeship in 1991 and has worked across the trade as a subcontractor, registered builder, and trainer. One thing people often misunderstand is that success in the trades comes easily. Advice for new starters: Back yourself, have a go, and be prepared to work through the tough times. A skill worth learning early is grit, resilience, and a strong work ethic. Safety tip: Stay switched on and look after yourself and your mates on site. What Brad enjoys most about training is seeing people take an opportunity and build something meaningful from it, especially when the odds are against them. |
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Kris AndreDirector “Learning should work for apprentices and employers.”
Kris began his carpentry and joinery apprenticeship at 17 and built his career working as a subcontractor before obtaining his builder licence. His interest in helping apprentices on site led him to pursue further study and move into training. Kris believes learning should work for both apprentices and employers, with training delivered in a way that supports real outcomes on site. He is deeply committed to continuous improvement and takes pride in building strong teams who share the same drive and standards. |
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Andrew MorenApprenticeships Manager “Ask questions while you can.”
Andrew has worked in the carpentry industry since 2002 and brings a calm, problem solving mindset to his role as Apprenticeships Manager. He knows from experience that the biggest gains come when apprentices learn early how to read plans properly and ask questions before committing to a task. Early mistakes around plan interpretation reinforced why clarity matters more than speed. Andrew also addresses the misconception that carpentry is just physical work, explaining the level of thinking and coordination involved. What he enjoys most is helping people build strong habits early and realise career pathways they may not have seen coming. |
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Kerry TheuerkaufApprenticeships Program Manager “Every day is a school day.”
Kerry has been in carpentry since 1995 and brings a steady, no-nonsense approach to managing apprenticeship programs. Years of pitching roofs and working at heights taught him the importance of preparation, communication, and knowing when to speak up. He reinforces that one of the first skills every apprentice should master is accurate measuring and listening closely on site. Kerry often challenges the idea that carpentry is just nailing timber together, highlighting the planning and responsibility involved. He enjoys seeing apprentices develop confidence through consistency and strong fundamentals. |
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Tyrone AdamsTrainer and Assessor “Know why you are doing something.”
Tyrone has worked in Carpentry since 2010 and brings a strong focus on accuracy and understanding the why behind every task. Cutting a door down too short early in his career reinforced the importance of measuring carefully and slowing down before committing. He encourages apprentices to learn how to read levels accurately and to ask questions whenever they are unsure. Tyrone often challenges the misconception that carpenters only work with timber, highlighting the wide skill set required across sites. What he enjoys most is watching apprentices progress as their confidence and capability grow over time. |
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Trevor BakonTrainer and Assessor “Stick it out, it’s worth it.”
Trevor has been in carpentry since 2007 and brings honesty and relatability into his training. Measuring mistakes early on taught him patience and reinforced why accuracy matters before cutting anything. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to measure properly and ask questions without worrying about looking inexperienced. Trevor often addresses the assumption that carpentry is easy, explaining the physical and mental demands involved. He enjoys passing on real world lessons and helping apprentices push through the tougher stages of their apprenticeship. |
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Damien BarkerTrainer and Assessor “Buy your tools early and look after them.”
Damien has worked in carpentry since 2004 and brings decades of practical experience into training. Cutting too much off an expensive entrance door taught him the cost of rushing and not double checking. He focuses on apprentices learning early how to sharpen tools properly and clamp materials before cutting. Damien also tackles the misconception that carpenters cannot do maths, reinforcing how much measuring and planning is involved. He enjoys helping apprentices become capable, confident tradespeople who take pride in doing the job right the first time. |
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Ryan CrockerTrainer and Assessor “Try it properly before you decide.”
Ryan has been working in carpentry since 2004 and brings a broad, start to finish understanding of the trade into training. He regularly breaks down the misconception that carpentry is just framing, explaining how carpenters are involved from site set out through to doors, stairs, and finishes. An early lesson from getting complacent with tools reinforced the importance of staying switched on at all times. Ryan enjoys helping people build confidence and realise how versatile a carpentry career can be. |
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Asher ElemaniTrainer and Assessor “Jump in and learn.”
Asher has worked in carpentry since 2010 and brings strong enthusiasm for the trade into his training style. Cutting an expensive beam short early in his career reinforced the importance of slowing down and checking measurements properly. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to use basic tools correctly and take pride in site presentation. Asher often addresses the misconception that a carpenter is the same as a builder, explaining the unique skills involved. He enjoys seeing apprentices exposed to a wide range of projects and building skills they can use across many career pathways. |
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Luke GarrardTrainer and Assessor “Start in the deep end and learn fast.”
Luke has been in the carpentry trade since 1993 and brings extensive experience across full builds into training. He challenges the idea that carpentry is just timber work, highlighting the role carpenters play in set out, excavation, concrete, and coordination with other trades. Dealing with engineering requirements taught him the importance of reading plans thoroughly. Luke focuses on work ethic and clear communication as skills apprentices should learn early. He enjoys honest conversations with apprentices and employers about real site expectations. |
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Jason GilmourTrainer and Assessor “Treat it as a long-term career.”
Jason has worked in carpentry since 2006 and brings a strong safety lens into training. A serious fall early in his apprenticeship reinforced the importance of checking temporary supports and never assuming a site is safe. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to read plans properly and work carefully with detailed finishes. Jason also addresses the misconception that carpenters only work with timber, highlighting the coordination involved across trades. He enjoys helping apprentices who are struggling and supporting them through to completion. |
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Scott IbbotsonTrainer and Assessor “It’s a career with plenty of paths.”
Scott has been in carpentry since 2003 and brings a straight talking, practical approach to training. A serious hand injury on site reinforced why PPE and staying focused around tools is nonnegotiable. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to move safely at heights and respect roof work. Scott often explains that carpentry offers many career avenues, not just time on the tools. What he enjoys most is helping apprentices build confidence, improve safety awareness, and realise their long-term potential. |
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Sean JacksonTrainer and Assessor “Don’t rush it. Learn it properly.”
Sean has worked in carpentry since 2010 and brings a steady, considered approach to training. He regularly reminds apprentices that the trade takes time to learn properly, and shortcuts usually come back to bite you. Installing a door without checking level early in his career reinforced why slowing down and checking the basics matters. Sean focuses on apprentices learning early how to measure accurately and use hand tools properly. He also addresses the misconception that carpentry is simple work, explaining the depth of knowledge required across all stages of a build. Sean enjoys visiting varied sites and talking through unusual jobs with apprentices. |
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Steve LeavyTrainer and Assessor “Measure twice, cut once.”
Steve has been in the carpentry trade since 2008 and brings a calm, reliable presence to training. He believes one of the most important skills apprentices can learn early is reading plans correctly and understanding how each stage flows into the next. Building stairs reinforced just how little room for error there is in carpentry. Steve also challenges the idea that carpentry only involves a few tools, highlighting how broad the skill set really is. He enjoys supporting apprentices as they grow in confidence and develop good site habits. |
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Lachlan MacKellarTrainer and Assessor “Put quality first.”
Lachlan has been working in carpentry since 2001 and brings a strong focus on craftsmanship and detail into training. He knows from experience that internal mitres and finishing work leave no room for shortcuts. Lachlan encourages apprentices to learn early how to scribe accurately and protect their health through proper PPE. He often addresses the misconception that carpentry is just woodworking, explaining the physical and technical range of the trade. Lachlan enjoys sharing knowledge and helping apprentices build skills that will last their entire career. |
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Damon MattinglyTrainer and Assessor “Understand why you’re doing it.”
Damon has been in carpentry since 2011 and brings an approachable, hands-on style to training. A difficult joist install that went nowhere fast taught him the importance of stopping, reassessing, and planning before pushing ahead. He focuses on apprentices learning early how to work safely, handle materials correctly, and understand the reasoning behind tasks. Damon also reinforces that carpentry is more than just putting timber together, with many pathways available. He enjoys watching apprentices mature and gain confidence over their four-year journey. |
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Chris MaudeTrainer and Assessor “Go for it. You’ll carry the skills for life.”
Chris has worked in carpentry since 1999 and brings a fundamentals first mindset to training. He strongly reinforces level and plumb work and the importance of eye and ear protection on every job. Years on site taught him how carpentry underpins every other trade on a build. Chris encourages apprentices to learn early how to read building plans properly and speak up when unsure. He enjoys seeing students grow into confident tradespeople who take pride in their work. |
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Blake NelisTrainer and Assessor “The why matters more than the how.”
Blake has worked in carpentry since 2008 and brings a big picture mindset to training. He regularly explains that carpentry skills extend well beyond the tools and can open doors into leadership, business, and other industries. A grinder injury early in his career reinforced how quickly complacency can creep in and why focus matters. Blake encourages apprentices to learn early why tasks are done a certain way, not just copy techniques. He also tackles the misconception that carpenters lay carpet, using humour to clarify the trade’s true scope. Blake enjoys helping apprentices build confidence and direction. |
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Adam PaskinsTrainer and Assessor “Take pride in your work.”
Adam has been in carpentry since 1999 and brings a disciplined, detail driven approach to training. Setting out a house too close to a boundary early in his career taught him the real cost of small planning errors. He focuses on apprentices learning early how to read plans properly, understand truss layouts, and take pride in neat, accurate work. Adam also addresses the misconception that carpentry is simple, highlighting the level of knowledge retention required. He enjoys passing on experience and helping apprentices build a strong foundation for long term success. |
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Matt ReddawayTrainer and Assessor “Buy into the trade fully.”
Matt has worked in carpentry since 2002 and brings strong business awareness into training. A tough lesson around continuing work without proper stage payments shaped how he now talks about boundaries, professionalism, and understanding the commercial side of the trade. He encourages apprentices to learn early how estimating, time management, and communication affect outcomes on site. Matthew often challenges the idea that carpentry limits career options, highlighting the many pathways available. He enjoys mentoring apprentices and sharing lessons that go beyond the tools. |
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Mark StaceyTrainer and Assessor “Good work is not cheap.”
Mark has worked in carpentry since 1974 and brings decades of lived experience into training. Cutting materials too short early on reinforced the importance of staying aware of surroundings and double checking before committing. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to problem solve calmly and not rush tasks under pressure. Mark often addresses the misconception that good work should be cheap, reinforcing the value of quality and experience. He enjoys spending time on site with employers and apprentices and helping maintain strong standards. |
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Joe SullivanTrainer and Assessor “Work hard and stay curious.”
Joe has been in carpentry since 2004 and values strong work ethic and consistency. Installing an external door without checking the jamb for level early in his apprenticeship reinforced why slowing down matters. Joe focuses on apprentices learning early how to pack up properly, respect the site, and understand set out. He also tackles the misconception that carpentry is limited to framing, explaining the range of skills involved. Joe enjoys supporting apprentices from their first day right through to completing their qualification. |
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Ben ThorburnTrainer and Assessor “Get in and have a go.”
Ben has been in carpentry since 2011 and brings humour and honesty into training. Cutting two left stair stringers when trusted to do the job solo taught him the value of slowing down and checking orientation before cutting. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to ask questions and not assume anything. Ben often clears up the misconception that carpentry has anything to do with laying carpet. He enjoys getting out to sites across Queensland and seeing apprentices gain confidence and skill. |
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Steve TurnbullTrainer and Assessor “Protect yourself and speak up.”
Steve has worked in carpentry since 1996 and brings a strong focus on communication and safety into training. Completing roof trusses, the wrong way around early in his career reinforced the importance of reading plans thoroughly before starting. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to communicate clearly and speak up if something does not feel right. Steve also addresses the misconception that a carpenter is automatically a builder. He enjoys seeing innovative projects and sharing practical lessons from decades on site. |
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Ian GoldingTrainer and Assessor “Never stop learning.”
Ian has worked across multiple engineering and construction trades since 2008 and brings a strong problem-solving mindset into training. A costly mistake melting grinding sparks into glass reinforced the importance of site awareness beyond the task in front of you. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to think ahead, understand geometry, and work safely across environments. Ian also addresses the misconception that engineering work is only about machinery, explaining the planning and precision involved. What he enjoys most is helping apprentices and employers navigate training requirements and removing confusion from the process. |
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Ryan JeffriesTrainer and Assessor “If you don’t know what it is, don’t touch it.”
Ryan has been working in diesel fitting since 2007 and brings a strong safety-first mindset into training. Undoing a pressurised hydraulic line early in his career taught him how quickly things can go wrong if risks are not assessed properly. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to identify hazards and slow down before starting any task. Ryan often clears up the misconception that diesel fitting is just engine work, highlighting diagnostics and systems knowledge. He enjoys seeing apprentices build confidence and technical capability over time. |
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Brian MillsTrainer and Assessor “Check twice before you weld it out.”
Brian has been in the trades since 1980 and brings decades of experience into engineering training. Welding a job out without fully checking drawings early on taught him the importance of reviewing both sides of a plan before committing. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to read drawings properly and take responsibility for accuracy. Brian also challenges the idea that engineering trades are simple, reinforcing the skill involved. He enjoys assisting apprentices through to completion and helping them build long term careers. |
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Brady WalkerTrainer and Assessor “Accuracy matters.”
Brady has been working in Boilermaking since 2009 and brings a calm, precision focused approach to training. Pressing plate on an uneven bed early in his career reinforced why assumptions lead to mistakes. He encourages apprentices to learn early how to mark out accurately and double check measurements before welding. Brady often addresses the misconception that boilermakers only weld, explaining the planning and set up involved. He enjoys passing on knowledge and seeing the moment when skills finally click for apprentices. |
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Tim NewtonVETiS Manager “Set them up properly from day one.”
Tim has worked in plumbing since 2006 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2015. One thing people often misunderstand is that poo (or poop) doesn't always run downhill! Advice for new starters: What a great career pathway. Lean on the people you keep interactions positive, your network is your greatest asset. A skill worth learning early: Plumber: A shovel is your best friend, learn how to use it! Safety tip: Always wash your hands after. What tim enjoys most about training is i enjoy being able to give back and have positive interactions with young people I often see a bit (or a lot) of myself in. |
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Rhys TeelowVETiS Program Manager “Confidence comes from consistency.”
Rhys has worked in boilermaking since 2010 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2021. One thing people often misunderstand is that people think Boilys are just hard workers but were also very smart. Advice for new starters: Ask plenty of questions. A skill worth learning early: Setting your welder. Safety tip: Wear hearing protection. What rhys enjoys most about training is teaching the new generation valuable skills. |
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Ken OrklidVETiS Program Manager “Get the basics right first.”
Ken has worked in carpentry since 2006 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2023. One thing people often misunderstand is that carpentry is just physical work, when it also requires planning, accuracy, and problem solving. Advice for new starters: Make sure you enjoy working with hands. A skill worth learning early: Measuring and marking out. Safety tip: Wear your PPE. What ken enjoys most about training is people and skills development. |
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Travis BanksVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Get the basics right and the rest follows.”
Travis has worked in boilermaking since 2013 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2025. One thing people often misunderstand is that boilermakers work hard but not smart. Advice for new starters: Give it a go and don't stop learning. A skill worth learning early: Learning to read a tape measure properly. Safety tip: Always wear your PPE. What travis enjoys most about training is passing on my own knowledge and experience to the next generation of tradies. |
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Matthew BryantVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Turn up prepared and ready to learn.”
Matthew has worked in carpentry since 2018 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2025. One thing people often misunderstand is that carpentry is an easy trade. Advice for new starters: Be prepared to work hard. A skill worth learning early: Read a tape measure. Safety tip: Always wear your PPE. What matthew enjoys most about training is the mix of teaching and working alongside future tradies showing them some handy tips and tricks. |
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Luke ButtonVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Have a crack and back yourself.”
Luke has worked in carpentry since 2007 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2025. One thing people often misunderstand is that carpentry is easy. Advice for new starters: Go for it, it can open plenty of doors for you. A skill worth learning early: Measuring and marking out. Safety tip: Always wear your safety glasses. What luke enjoys most about training is seeing the progress. |
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Ash CooperVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Small wins add up.”
Ash has worked in plumbing since 2004 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2024. One thing people often misunderstand is that plumbing is easy. Advice for new starters: Learn the basics and listen to your tradesperson. A skill worth learning early: Digging. Safety tip: Wear your PPE. What ash enjoys most about training is teaching young people and watching them learn and become successful. |
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Garrick DillonVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Listen first, then act.”
Garrick has worked in carpentry,electrical,coach and motor body builder since 1988 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2015. One thing people often misunderstand is that electrical, there is only 3 coloured wires, how hard can it be. Advice for new starters: If you want variety of work and great opportunities and good pay, then do it. A skill worth learning early: Measurement. Safety tip: Wear your safety glasses like placing your seat belt on in a car. What garrick enjoys most about training is being the look of satisfaction when students complete a skill. |
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Shaun MadsonVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Focus on doing it right, not doing it fast.”
Shaun has worked in fitting and machining since 1989 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2025. One thing people often misunderstand is that its not a trade. Advice for new starters: Work hard ask questions. A skill worth learning early: Use a tape measure. Safety tip: Wear your PPE. What shaun enjoys most about training is watching them develop. |
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Ryan McDonaldVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Consistency beats talent.”
Ryan has worked in cabinetmaking since 1998 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2024. One thing people often misunderstand is that it is just woodwork, but there is a lot more to it than that. Advice for new starters: Give it a crack and keep turning up. A skill worth learning early: Use power tools properly. Safety tip: Wear your PPE and keep guards on tools. What Ryan enjoys most about training is seeing students progress and build confidence. |
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Greg McGawVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Do it once, do it properly.”
Greg has worked in carpentry since 2000 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2025. One thing people often misunderstand is that carpentry is only labour, but there is a lot of skill and thinking in the work. Advice for new starters: Stick it out, it gets easier. A skill worth learning early: How to use a tape measure. Safety tip: Wear your safety glasses. What Greg enjoys most about training is seeing young people succeed. |
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Kris MeeVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Stay switched on.”
Kris has worked in carpentry since 2007 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2024. One thing people often misunderstand is that carpentry is an easy job, but it takes skill, accuracy, and effort every day. Advice for new starters: If you enjoy working with your hands, it is a solid trade with good opportunities. A skill worth learning early: Learn the proper names for tools. Safety tip: Always wear your PPE. What Kris enjoys most about training is teaching students skills and watching them master the basics. |
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Tom MortonVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Think ahead.”
Tom has worked in boilermaking since 2010 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2025. One thing people often misunderstand is that boilermaking is just welding. Advice for new starters: Get out and experience as much as you can. A skill worth learning early: Tape measure and basic hand skills. Safety tip: Always wear your PPE. What Tom enjoys most about training is seeing students progress as they learn and master new skills. |
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Brad RowlandsVETiS Trainer and Assessor “No shortcuts.”
Brad joined Blue Dog Training in 2025 and brings solid hands on experience in boilermaking. One thing people often misunderstand is that boilermaking is not just welding. Advice for new starters: Get into it and do not be scared to have a crack. A skill worth learning early: Read a tape. Safety tip: Wear your PPE always. What Brad enjoys most about training is watching students progress and gain confidence in their abilities. |
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Chris SealyVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Turn up early and take it seriously.”
Chris joined Blue Dog Training in 2016 and brings solid hands on experience across a mix of trades. One thing people often misunderstand is that there is no variety, but every day brings something different. Advice for new starters: Each day is different and there is always a challenge. A skill worth learning early: Working with others. Safety tip: Always wear your PPE. What Chris enjoys most about training is seeing students click when a skill finally lands. |
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Richard StylesVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Quality speaks for itself.”
Richard has worked in cabinetmaking and joinery since 1992 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2024. One thing people often misunderstand is that cabinetmakers can't do carpentry. Advice for new starters: Make sure you are physically capable. A skill worth learning early: Reading a tape measure. Safety tip: Wear PPE. What richard enjoys most about training is seeing the improvement in skills. |
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Shane WatsonVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Teaching takes patience.”
Shane joined Blue Dog Training in 2015 and brings solid hands on experience in industrial technology teacher. One thing people often misunderstand is that teaching is easy. Advice for new starters: Not everyone can teach. A skill worth learning early: Respect. Safety tip: Be actively conscious of what's going on around you. What shane enjoys most about training is watching lights come on in students minds as they learn and master new skills. |
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Dylan Whitney ClarkeVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Millimetres matter.”
Dylan has worked in boilermaking since 2007 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2025. One thing people often misunderstand is that it is technical work, and being a couple of millimetres out can throw the whole job. Advice for new starters: Move around and learn as much as you can. A skill worth learning early: Read a tape measure properly. Safety tip: Most injuries happen when someone is rushing or not paying attention. What Dylan enjoys most about training is meeting students and watching them grow. |
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Scott WigginsVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Do it to a standard you'd pay for.”
Scott has worked in boilermaking since 1994 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2024. One thing people often misunderstand is that boilermaking is only welding, it involves fitting and machining too. Advice for new starters: Take your time and learn properly. A skill worth learning early: Read a tape. Safety tip: Always wear your safety glasses. What Scott enjoys most about training is watching students improve each day. |
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Geoff WilsonVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Measure twice, cut once.”
Geoff has worked in plumbing since 1984 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2024. One thing people often misunderstand is that plumbers are not paid well. Advice for new starters: Start young. A skill worth learning early: How to use a shovel. Safety tip: Wear your ear muffs around loud machinery. What Geoff enjoys most about training is seeing students gain confidence in their skills. |
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Kim WrightVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Think before you start.”
Kim has worked in diesel fitting and mechanical fitting since 2009 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2018. One thing people often misunderstand is that diesel mechanics can fix everything. Advice for new starters: If you have a can do attitude and are willing to learn, give it a go. A skill worth learning early: How to use a measuring tape properly. Safety tip: Always wear your safety glasses, your sight is precious. What Kim enjoys most about training is watching students improve their skills over time. |
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Jess ZwartVETiS Trainer and Assessor “Run your own race.”
Jess has worked in mechanical fitting, light vehicle mechanic since 2016 and joined Blue Dog Training in 2024. One thing people often misunderstand is that it's a very male dominated trade, but times are changing. Advice for new starters: Stick it out, it's worth it. A skill worth learning early: Measuring correctly. Safety tip: Always wear your PPE. What jess enjoys most about training is seeing students progress and knowing you played a part in that is incredibly rewarding. |
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