Our Try a Trade Program is a particular point of pride here at Programmed Facility Management, offering the chance for participants to improve practical skills, nurture unity, and instill a strong sense of safety awareness as they delve into passions and explore potential career avenues.
Recently, we were thrilled to hold another iteration of the program, kicking off with boundless enthusiasm in a collaboration with ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA), Canberra Police Community Youth Club (PCYC), and ACT Disability Aged and Carer Advocacy Service (ADACAS).
Participants hailed from a diverse array of backgrounds, showcasing a wide spread of abilities at a prominent maintenance site in Canberra. From mowing and brush cutting to leaf blowing, painting, and concrete cleaning, the program covered a myriad of garden maintenance aspects, culminating in planting small vegetation and putting the final touches on the foyer’s paintwork.
An unforgettable moment occurred when Karen Weir, Disability Employer Confidence Project Officer from ADACAS, who is typically an ambulant wheelchair chair user, eagerly seized the opportunity to operate the ride-on mower. Thanks to the hand-operated controls and foot-activated blade engagement, Karen received guidance from Alex at Canberra PCYC’s social enterprise, The Mower Shed, and was soon cruising with a beaming smile from ear to ear.
The pinnacle of our efforts arrived post-lunch on day two - a graduation ceremony where 11 participants were awarded well-deserved certificates, acknowledging their remarkable contributions and proudly showcasing these accomplishments to others.
The Try a Trade Program represents a perfect blend of skill development, teamwork, and pride. We are very much looking forward to future events, enabling our local communities to cultivate practical skills and personal development!
