Major Convos

Major Convos

By Major ConvosEducation
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Major Convos episodes

  • Shaking Up the System with Phil Bevan: A Vision for VET

    In this episode of Major Convos, we’re joined by the dynamic

    and outspoken Phil Bevan, currently dialling in from the beautiful Bali.


    A country NSW boy turned industry advocate and disruptor, Phil’s career has taken

    him from teaching in classrooms to running his own RTO, founding a consultancy firm, and even leading an IT company. Now back in the consulting space, he’s
    helping larger providers navigate the complex world of vocational education and
    training (VET).

     

    Known for saying the things others shy away from, Phil

    shares his candid insights on the state of the sector. He’s passionate about petitioning for change, advocating for a vibrant and varied training industry that supports TAFE while recognizing its limitations. His innovative approach challenges the traditional models, calling for a more dynamic and inclusive system that caters to all learners.

     

    Phil also dives into his TAE Petition—a campaign sparking

    debate and encouraging fresh perspectives in VET. With a mind that runs at a mile a minute and a laugh about his lack of sleep, Phil is unapologetically passionate about shaking up the status quo.

     

    Tune in to hear his thoughts on industry bodies, the gaps in

    consultation, and why he believes it’s time to think outside the box. This is an episode you won’t want to miss—controversial edge included!


    Check out Phil's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillbevan/

    1 hr 25 min
  • Kicking Goals: How the Suns Graduate Program is Transforming Lives On and Off the Field

    In this episode, we sit down with Craig Lees from AFL Cairns

    as we explore the transformative power of the Suns Graduate Program, an
    entry-level initiative aimed at inspiring and guiding 15–19-year-olds using the
    dynamic world of AFL as a vehicle for personal growth. So much more than just
    playing footy, this program focuses on building lifelong skills like
    communication, self-discipline, tenacity and time management. The program
    combines community engagement with technical training through the Certificate II
    in Workplace Skills provided by Major Training.

     

    We dive into the incredible diversity of the cohort, with

    70–80% of participants coming from First Nations backgrounds and highlight the
    resilience it took to resurrect this program when it was on the brink of being
    lost. Discover how this initiative not only supports struggling youth but also
    leverages the benefits of being part of a sporting community—insights that can
    transform various aspects of life.

     

    Hear inspiring stories, including past program graduate

    Heidi Talbot’s journey toward being drafted at an elite level and learn about
    the AFL Cape York House program, future facility upgrades and how the community
    can rally around to ensure the ongoing success of this impactful initiative
    changing the trajectory of youth through sports.

    48 min
  • THIS IS A CONVERSATION STARTER!

    In this powerfully vulnerable episode of Major Convos, we

    sit down with Jason Banks, co-CEO of TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter), to
    discuss the need for mental health awareness within blue-collar industries.
    From his own experience in the corporate world to taking a transformative
    4-year sabbatical, enduring the Kokoda Trail and his own personal experiences
    with mental health, Jason shares the lessons he's learned, the importance of
    finding purpose and leadership.

     

    He delves into the work of TradeMutt, a movement that’s

    using colour and conversation to bring light to mental health issues that are
    often left in the dark. TradeMutt’s iconic workwear shirts have become a
    powerful tool for breaking the stigma and turning strangers into mates, all
    while raising the funds to provide free mental health support to tradies,
    truckies, farmers and other blue-collar workers through TIACS.

     

    Jason emphasises the importance of every purchase of

    TradeMutt merchandise helping make mental health care accessible for everyone,
    everywhere and fund professional, confidential counselling services, possibly
    offering another hour of support for someone in need.

     

    Tune in to this insightful conversation and learn how small

    actions—like wearing a bright shirt—can lead to big changes in how we talk
    about and take care of mental health.

     

    If you or someone you know is struggling, or you just need

    to talk through the noise in your head, TIACS is here to help. Reach out Monday
    to Friday, from 8 AM to 10 PM, by calling or texting 0488846988.


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    1 hr 3 min
  • Navigating Apprenticeship Challenges: Insights from Canada’s Electrical Training Sector

    In this episode of Major Convos, we sit down with Farid, the Director of Business

    Development for an Electrical Training Organisation in British Columbia, Canada. We flew Farid over to Australia to share his expertise and insights from their Mentorship Matters Program to pilot our own here at Major Training. The boys discuss the importance of finding opportunities to add value in training systems and dive deep into the synergies between the Canadian and Australian markets, uncovering shared challenges such as skilled labor shortages and the crucial role supervisors play in guiding apprentices to completion. Mentorship is at the heart of apprentice success, and Farid highlights how both countries can learn from each other to improve their support systems.

     

    We also explore the future of the electrical industry and how Australian apprentices may have an advantage by earning while they learn. Plus, we swap notes on how trade schools operate differently across the globe. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation packed with practical insights for the next generation of tradespeople!


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    1 hr 18 min
  • 🍹Bon Voyage, Emily. 🍹

    Our very own Client Experience superstar, Emily France, has packed her bags and is ready to take flight next week. Em won a spin on the coveted prize wheel at the launch party in January and won herself and her partner an all inclusive trip to Thailand on the boss! Enough room in the suitcase for any of us, Em? 


    Curious about how Em scored that trip? Listen to the full episode to find out!

    21 min
  • Building Success: Insights from Scaffolding Kingpin Jed Newnham

    In this episode, we sit down with Jed Newnham, the Managing Director of leading Queensland scaffolding company, Newnham Scaffolding, to delve into the world of scaffolding and business management. With a thriving

    company of 75 team members, Jed shares his journey and the strategies that have led to his success. Learn about the mentoring program they have implemented
    with the onboarding of Brad Donald. Hear about the journey of 24 trainees, from
    undertaking training with us at Major, to securing leadership roles, and how
    the company's traineeship program has paved the way for strong career paths.
    "If you don’t learn to communicate with the next generation, you’ll make
    yourself redundant." Jed talks about the importance of bringing young
    workers into laborious roles and how to effectively communicate and negotiate
    pay with them. The boys also delve into the ‘5 love languages’ and expose the
    importance of learning your teams love language.

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    56 min
  • Gerry For President!

    In this inspiring and colourful episode, we sit down with

    Gerry Blackwell, the passionate founder and director of the Youth Development
    Foundation. Gerry shares her journey and insights on the importance of taking
    ownership and pride in youth and community. We dive into the pressing issue of
    our youth crisis and explore how change can be made without judgment.


    We talk about the impressive 98% rate of her YDF clients who

    have seen significant improvements in their circumstances, thanks to the
    foundation's influence.


    Gerry shares her bold moves to hold big corporates

    accountable and to bring them to the table whilst seeking assistance and
    solutions to keep kids off the streets.

     

    Gerry sheds light on her two essential rules taking youth

    into her care and the concept of tough love in mentoring youth. We also discuss
    the foundation's innovative approach of partnering with Registered Training
    Organisations (RTOs) to provide wrap-around services that holistically support
    young individuals.


    Lastly, we delve into the critical topic of accessing

    funding for community projects, ensuring these impactful initiatives continue
    to thrive.

     

    Tune in for an episode full of heartfelt stories, practical

    advice, and a no-filter approach to making a difference in our communities.
    Don't miss out on this engaging conversation with Gerry Blackwell!

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    1 hr 19 min
  • Let’s Talk Tech!

    Get ready for an enlightening episode as we welcome Scott Rogers, the visionary CEO of eSkilled. Discover how eSkilled is transforming the vocational education and training landscape with innovative AI training delivery solutions. Learn about eSkilled’s conceptualisation and their dedication to solving problems and delivering solutions.


    We explore how eSkilled’s AI course creator streamlines the entire educational journey from enrolments to completion, ensuring a seamless experience for learners and educators alike. Scott debunks common concerns and apprehensions some still are having around the general mistrust of AI, how we can embrace it and why a human element remains crucial in AI integration as he highlights its enormous potential for productivity. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of education and training with one of the industry’s leading innovative minds.


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    1 hr 12 min
  • Let’s Address the Elephant in the Room: Industry Segregation and the Skills Strategy 2024-2028

    Join our hosts,

    Corey Bowles and Mathew Tenkate, as they dive deep into the evolving landscape
    of apprenticeships and skills training in this dynamic and possibly
    controversial episode. This week, Corey and Mathew tackle the recent retracked
    incentives for some training organisations supporting apprenticeships,
    discussing the broader implications for both businesses and industry. They’ll
    also examine why transport has been booted from the priority skills list and
    what this means for the future workforce. This episode highlights concerns
    about many registered training organisations (RTOs) being overlooked in the
    current scheme. They’ll ask the critical question: Why don’t RTOs, big and
    small have the same seat at the table?

    46 min
  • Beyond the Threshold with Dr Franziska Curran

    In this enlightening episode, we are joined by Dr. Franziska Curran, a Principal Consultant at Anthesis Group, champions in sustainable performance for business. Dr. Curran starts the conversation at a grassroots level, discussing practical steps individuals can begin with such as waste separation, carpooling, and going paperless—simple yet effective measures that set the stage for larger sustainability goals.


    We delve into the Australian Government's Climate Active Certification Scheme, highlighting how businesses can achieve and benefit from this certification. We go beyond the basics, as we examine the broader implications of sustainability, emphasising that it’s more than just planting trees to make a tangible impact.


    Whether you're a small business or a large corporate entity, this episode offers valuable guidance on navigating the complexities of emissions reporting and driving meaningful environmental change.


    Check out Anthesis Group's Website - https://www.anthesisgroup.com/au/


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    1 hr 14 min

About Major Convos

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to "Major Convos," the podcast exploring education and training. Join us for insightful conversations with experts, covering trends, innovations, and challenges. We dive deep into teaching…