High school student Kash Harrison-Douglas is off to a flying start in life. As a trainee pilot in his hometown of Cloncurry, Kash finances his flight training by working part-time as ground crew at the airport. When his teacher suggested a school-based traineeship offering a formal qualification that included aviation subjects, he jumped at the chance.
Completing a Certificate III in Business, the inclusion of aviation electives allows Kash to engage in highly specialised ground-handling activities such as baggage handling operations, passenger check-in, aeronautical radio operation and security awareness.
One of the greatest, unexpected benefits of the training is the regular interaction with pilots and other airline industry personnel whilst on the job. As Kash's goal is to become a commercial pilot, this insight into the industry is invaluable.
'I love every aspect of this work. Best decision I've made.'
Through consistent experience in a professional, customer service-focused environment, Kash has honed his communication skills to a high level. He is now extremely comfortable engaging with people of all ages, professions, and backgrounds.
'Managing customers can be very challenging, especially when flights are delayed or luggage goes missing, and the training has helped me develop tact, diplomacy and problem-solving skills.'
Kash's pleasant demeanor and outstanding customer service led him to feature in a 2023 Landline episode on rural aviation, and again in ABC media publications.
As a state finalist in the 2024 Queensland Training Awards, Kash is a fine example of the professional and personal benefits school-based training can offer. Accompanying Kash at this year's state finals are 6 other amazing regional winners completing vocational training whilst studying at school, gaining invaluable, on-the-job training that is setting them up for bright futures.
School-based apprenticeships and traineeships reach across the state and, like this year's finalists, students can work with major employers like Rio Tinto and Queensland Health, and in smaller businesses like The Gallery Café Mt Tamborine, Teton Construction and Maintenance, and Intuition – The Art of Hair.
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Find out more about school-based apprenticeships and traineeships.
Last updated 15 August 2024
