Originally from Brazil, JP moved to Australia almost 7 years ago to pursue a digital career.
With a background in mechanical engineering, as well as experience in manufacturing and civil construction industries in Brazil and later regional NSW, JP sought to build on this work experience and explore a different path in the digital sector to enhance his career opportunities.
JP had his first taste of the digital sector when he participated in a full-time training program with _nology, which allowed him to gain the foundational software skills to deliver Full-Stack Development for front-end and back-end development. Over the space of 3 months, the intensive training course focused on several core technologies which offered JP a complete overview of the software development lifecycle.
Supporting participants to practically prepare, apply and enter new industries and navigating the job market is a vital part of the program offered by _nology. JP received assistance with building his CV, interview preparation and ongoing support, which proved vital for him while he was upskilling full-time and relying on his partner’s income.
“I didn’t want to wait for the perfect path—I just followed my interest in tech and tried to build something as I went” JP said.
After undertaking the training program with _nology, JP landed a contracted role as a developer at Revenue NSW and became a mentee of his manager, Chris. After just 18 months in the role, he secured a position as a developer in the Revenue Identity Management System team with his manager, Susan, and was recently promoted to a Senior Developer in the team.
“JP brings a level of clarity, drive and accountability that comes from having consciously chosen a new path, and it shows in his enthusiasm and the quality of his work” Chris says.
Chris went on to say, “his [JPs] experience has shaped him into someone highly motivated, reliable and eager to continuously improve”.
“JP has been a fantastic addition to the team, bringing new perspectives and energy, and demonstrating the real value of hiring through alternative pathways to access diverse and high potential talent” says Susan.
JP’s journey has helped him to build on his technical skills, but more importantly his confidence and leadership skills. He credits both the training program through _nology and the supportive employment environment at Revenue NSW for enabling his career transition.
“Revenue NSW has given me many opportunities to learn and grow. I’m especially grateful to my managers, who consistently encouraged me to explore new technologies and believed in my approach to problem-solving," says JP.
His story highlights the significance of organisations supporting entry into the digital industry through alternative pathways and programs, especially for those transitioning from different industries or overseas.
“Hiring through an alternative pathway like this has been refreshing as it introduced someone who is not only technically capable but deeply committed to making the most of the opportunity. It’s a strong reminder that diverse career journeys can produce exceptional people who add real value from day one,” says Chris.
Both Revenue NSW and _nology are NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact Partners committed to the 20% Alternative Pathways Pledge, that 20% of all digital entry-level hires to come through alternative pathways by 2030. Both organisations are showing how their collaboration can create opportunities for successful career pathways.