Lucas Riggio, a graduate of the Defence Industry Pathways Program fourth intake, is cementing himself as JFD’s WA Stores Leading Hand.
Lucas initially wanted to pursue a career in the Navy after finishing year 12, but heard about the Defence Industry Pathways Program at a local career expo and decided to look more broadly at a career in the defence industry.
The Defence Industry Pathways Program was not what Lucas initially expected: “I didn’t expect to be this exposed through the work placement and get as much exposure as I did,” he said.
Lucas believes this program offers so much more, combining a Certificate III in Defence Industry Pathways with hands-on experience.
Throughout his time with JFD, Lucas has always been welcomed as a part of the team.
He initially commenced his secondment placement in the Store environment, learning from “knowledgeable and inspiring” mentors Paul Minshul, Logistics & Infrastructure Manager, and Trevor Hammond, WA Stores Leading Hand.
JFD has a focus on not only developing talent through work placements, but also offering career opportunities wherever possible. They provide a unique work placement opportunity in Stores, Logistics and Facilities Management, exposing the individuals to a number of experiences through JFD capabilities.
Lucas is grateful for the support of JFD, who provided him with a seamless transition into a role post-completion of the Defence Industry Pathways Program – initially commencing in a Store person role before being promoted earlier this year into the WA Stores Leading Hand position, taking over the reins from Trevor.
“I learnt so much throughout my work placement,” Lucas said.
“In my role I enjoy more responsibility and I’m constantly learning.
“I am exposed to a broad range of tasks and duties in a fast-paced environment.
“The Defence Industry Pathways Program prepared for me this role by developing key organisational skills required for my role.”
Lucas is also grateful for the support provided by Programmed Training Services (PTS) throughout his time in the Program .
“I definitely got a lot of support from Camelia [Borg, Training Coordinator],” he said.
“She supported me throughout the whole year – whether it was TAFE, work placement or life coaching, she was always there to support.”
Lucas’ mentor, Paul Minshull, explains JFD’s ongoing support of the Defence Industry Pathways Program, having hosted numerous trainees throughout a number of intakes.
“JFD is committed to giving back to the Defence Industries that give us so much as employees and contractors to Defence,” he said.
“This provides talent pathways for the future workforce, sharing knowledge from experienced employees to individuals that show a keen interest in careers within Defence Industries.”
Paul is effusive in his praise of the value of the Defence Industry Pathways Program, and PTS’ assessment and screening process – as well as the selection and support provided by industry: “The quality of trainees coming through is a testament to Programmed’s screening and selection process,” he explains.
A prime example of this, is JFD having earmarked Lucas for the role while he was on secondment – which was made easier with PTS’ assistance throughout the program.
“This program gave him the chance and the exposure to the role and the organisation,” Paul said.
“This was complimented by the support of PTS; always professional, supportive of us and the candidate.
“Nothing has been too hard, they’re a great team that have supported us throughout.”
Paul adds that now Lucas has cemented himself within the organisation, the world is his oyster.
“This role is a foot in the door with JFD – the opportunities are endless,” he said.
“If Lucas wants to branch off and diversify into new career pathways, JFD and the team will support him.”
