Optic partners with Balga TAFE to mentor future tradespeople

Optic Security Group has partnered with Balga TAFE to provide mentoring and mock interview sessions for electrical pre-apprenticeship students.

The collaboration aims to support the next generation of tradespeople by introducing them to opportunities within the security industry. Optic Security Group is currently the sole security company in Western Australia spearheading such an initiative.

Patrick Hill, Operations Manager for Optic Security Group WA, recently conducted mock interviews with 15 students at Balga TAFE. He worked alongside Alex Sheed of Sheed Electrical and the students' lecturer, Ron Hill. The goal was to prepare these students for real-world job interviews by giving them experience in a professional setting. Each student took part in a 15-minute session where they were asked questions, given the opportunity to ask their own, and received personalised feedback aimed at improving their interview skills.

Hill discussed the importance of this initiative: "For me, this is about giving back to the security and electrical industry that has supported my career and apprentices over the years. It's also a chance to show these students the diverse pathways they can take within the trade, including security. The converged security sector, where technology and trade expertise meet, is evolving fast. We need bright, capable individuals to join us and drive the future of this industry. These kinds of initiatives help us uncover and attract that talent early."

This approach is part of Optic's larger strategy to nurture emerging talent and expand the perception of the security industry within Australia. By mentoring students and presenting security as a viable career path, Optic aims to support building the trade sector and expanding the security industry.

Hill further explained, "At Optic, we are constantly looking for new ways to support both our industry and future tradespeople. The talent pool for security professionals is growing more diverse, and many of these young men and women have the skills to excel in both trades and technology-focused roles. We want them to see security not just as an option, but as a dynamic and rewarding career choice."

The security industry in Australia is critical to maintaining the integrity of infrastructure, businesses, and communities. Still, it faces challenges attracting skilled individuals due to misconceptions about the sector's potential. The collaboration with Balga TAFE forms part of efforts to change these perceptions by showcasing how trade skills can be applied within the security field.

Vicki Barber, Brand Strategy and Innovation Director at Optic Security Group highlighted the importance of supporting young people on their career paths. She mentioned, "We need to empower the next generation with the resources and skills they need to succeed, whether that's in the trades or other career paths. Experiences like mentoring and interview practice are invaluable because they bridge the gap between education and the workforce. It's about giving students the confidence and practical knowledge they need to navigate the professional world. At Optic, we see it as our responsibility to support these experiences, and we are excited about initiatives like this that foster growth, connection, and real-world learning."

This initiative reflects a commitment to building connections, equipping students with essential skills, and exploring the prospects of both trades and the security industry. As a key player in converged security solutions, Optic Security Group acknowledges the importance of preparing young individuals for jobs and careers that will define the future landscape of industries.