Trade Career Discovery for Schools

On Thursday, June 5th, Aquinas VCE and Vocational Major students had the privilege of listening to an awe-inspiring presentation by Jono McCartney, an industry leader from ProLink Trade Group. Over the course of 40 minutes, Jono delivered a no-frills talk that drew from his many years of experience in the trades, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Key messages were practical, honest, and highly relevant to students preparing to enter the workforce. He emphasised the importance of making a strong first impression with a sharp, standout resume. He reminded students that employability starts with the basics: punctuality, taking pride in your appearance, and never underestimating the value of simple tools like a dustpan and broom. Jono stressed the importance of putting the phone away, avoiding 'vices' in life, and being present in the workplace.

Coachability was another central theme. Jono encouraged students to be curious, to see feedback as fuel for growth, and to embrace the mindset of “I suck at it!” as a starting point for learning. He spoke about the significance of knowing your worth, building confidence through hard work and integrity, and staying out of trouble. Students were challenged to reflect on how they will present themselves moving forward, urging them to believe in their self-worth and to develop a personal mantra or motto—displayed prominently and recited daily. Finally, he highlighted that people skills are everything: being interested in others, being interesting yourself, and going above and beyond in every role.