Skilled trades are part of Rohan Trusler’s DNA. With a father and grandfather who were both ‘on the tools’ as mechanical engineers, Rohan chose to follow in their footsteps and became a plumbing apprentice over 20 years ago.
His work took him all over Melbourne, helping to build new homes for the city’s growing population. A well-respected tradie in the building industry, Rohan worked his way up to a management position before everything changed when he experienced a workplace injury.
“After my injury, I thought that becoming a plumbing trainer and assessor could be a good career path that would let me remain within the field” Rohan explained.
“There were a few things to consider when I made the transition to teaching. I needed to do some study to get my teaching qualification. But I’ve got a family. How could I keep bringing in an income? I found I could work during the day and study at night.”
“I’m happy I made the switch. Teaching is incredibly satisfying – seeing the smiles on students’ faces when they master a skill and when they pass their exams is very rewarding. I feel that same sense of achievement that our apprentices get when they’ve qualified. Mentoring the next generation gives me a real sense of accomplishment.”
“I get fantastic support here at work. They know about my injury and we work around those challenges. It’s a very flexible workplace and the hours are great. I don't work six or seven days a week anymore, 12-plus hours. It gives me lots of time with my family. We always work as a team here too, all the way down from the managers right through to the trainers. We all work as one.”
What advice would Rohan give to someone who is considering their future in trades, and perhaps looking for a career change?
“Take the challenge. It's not hard. There’s some work to do to become a trainer, but it's well and truly worth it. This is a really good next step. For someone my age, in my 40s, it’s given me a new pathway and I’m looking forward to teaching for many more years.”
