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Commonwealth Bank (CommBank) signed the NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact 20% Alterative Pathways Pledge in 2024. A year on, they have shared their story to inspire other businesses on how alternative pathways can play a key part in achieving organisational goals.  

After signing on to the compact, CommBank re-launched the Technology Associates Program, designed to open doors for emerging talent in fields like Engineering, Data Science and Cyber Security. The program was reimagined to now offer permanent roles with tailored support and optional rotations to suit an individual’s needs.

Kathryn Howard, CommBank's Product Owner Community Skilling, shared the organisation is proud to be part apart of the change underway, saying “it [the program] sends a clear message – alternative pathways aren’t just a pilot program, they’re integral to our long-term workforce strategy”

She further reflected that building a new talent pipeline takes time. “It’s been a year of learning, and a mindset shift to reimagine what tech talent looks like and where it comes from.” Kathryn shared.

To support the expansion of their Associates Program, CommBank made shifts to how they recruit, track and report on the talent that comes through the program. As a result, they were able attract and recruit high quality talent through improved engagement, identify areas where more support was needed and understand areas that needed more support or focus.  

Kathryn spoke to the importance of support structures saying “it’s not about getting people through the door. Wraparound support like mentoring, coaching and community has been key to helping our Tech Associates succeed”.

“We’ve learned to meet people where they are, which means flexible onboarding, tailored learning and development opportunities and recognising that everyone’s journey is different which is something we celebrate”.

Kathryn shared the benefits of working with the NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact saying “its enabled CommBank to accelerate our alternative pathways through a community of partners aligned on shared goals. The collective effort has helped us move faster, learn from others and exchange ideas that sharpen our approach”.

So, what’s next?

Over the next 12 months, CommBank will be continuing to expand their Associate Program working towards the 20% Alternative Pathways Pledge 2030 goal.  

From panel discussions to profile pieces, another focus for CommBank has been spotlighting employees who’ve taken a less conventional pathway into tech.

“[The success stories] often challenge the status quo and highlight what’s possible when we focus on skills and potential – not just formal qualifications” says Kathryn.

Through sharing these stories and continuously improving the experience CommBank offers to their talent, Kathryn hopes it will inspire other both employers and individuals to rethink what a career in tech looks like. 

Emily, a Security Incident Response Analyst, shares her experience and encourages anyone with an interest to find their own pathway into the digital profession.

 Emily's passion for technology started at a young age, she's now a Security Incident Response Analyst in the Cyber team at the Commonwealth Bank Australia (CBA) and shared that her pathway to this role has been an interesting one. 

“I've always been a tech girl! Since I was young, I've loved gaming and technology – it's something I was always interested in,” Emily said.  

“A lot of people feel like technology is really difficult to understand and you need a lot of experience, but honestly it's actually such a great space, as long as you have interest in it – you can learn and join!” 

Emily shared that through this early interest, along with encouragement from her family, she knew there were amazing opportunities for women in technology.  

Before landing her current role, Emily first joined CBA as an intern whilst also studying. 

“I felt very supported during my internship by my managers, and I was encouraged to work in different Cyber teams.” 

“My internship expanded my knowledge and experience of the Cyber world and helped me decide which Cyber area I wanted to pursue in my career.” 

Over her 3-year internship Emily had the opportunity to work across Cyber Business Performance, Service Management for Cyber Defence Operations and Cyber Recovery and Resilience.  

Reflecting on her own career journey so far, Emily shared that taking on new opportunities has led her to the most unexpected places and digital jobs.  

She encourages anyone with genuine interest to explore and seek out a career in the digital space, including via an alternate pathway.  

“You should never feel afraid to try something you're interested in just because you don't have the education in it,” she said.  

“Don't worry about being underqualified or overqualified for a job – if it interests you, then take the risk to apply and trust the process.”  

The Commonwealth Bank Australia, a NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact Partner committed to the 20% Alternative Pathways Pledge, that 20% of all digital entry-level hires will come from alternative pathways by 2030. 

Inspired to start your digital career? 

• Find out about upcoming events and workshops in your area.
• Find available Digital Skills resources and collateral.
• Visit Skills NSW for training information, advice and guidance.

On Tuesday 2 December 2025, 18 new Compact Partners publicly signed the pledge.

This third Compact Partner signing event highlights growing number of digital sector organisations that are committed to 20% of digital-entry level hires coming from alternative pathways by 2030. 

Learn more or get involved.

On Thursday 31 July 2025, 19 Compact Partners publicly signed a pledge. This second Compact Partner signing event highlights the growing number of organisations - from across the digital sector – commitment to 20% of all digital entry-level hires will come from alternative pathways by 2030.

Learn more or get involved.

On Monday 2 December 2024, 22 Compact Partners publicly signed a pledge that 20% of all digital entry-level hires will come from alternative pathways by 2030. The signing is a landmark commitment from the digital sector, creating lasting cultural change. 

Learn more or get involved.

"The 20% Pledge offers alternative pathways to tech careers in Australia, which are essential to addressing the sectors critical skills shortages. The Pledge represents a commitment from across the industry to offer flexible, inclusive, and efficient solutions to workforce challenges which will help address labour demands, but also support long-term economic growth and regional development."

Josh Griggs, CEO - ACS