Robert ready to steer VET training in the right direction as the new Associate Dean of the School of Trades

Robert Buttery is hoping to bring a strong vision to CQUniversity's Vocational Education and Training (VET) as the new Associate Dean of the School of Trades.

Robert brings more than 30 years professional experience in the Army and at Charles Darwin University to CQU and he is keen to put his skills and knowledge to good use.

"I'm excited. I have referred to this role as my "dream job in my dream location". I can see the potential for the School of Trades and CQU and am looking forward to working with all involved to help achieve our potential'" he said.

"Initially' I am looking to stabilise the school structure. There have been a number of staff changes and challenges in recruitment' which I hope to address initially. I would like to promote a culture of innovation and 'ownership' within the school' where staff are encouraged to 'look outside the box' and become leaders in their fields."

He said he was encouraged by the reception he'd received since arriving at the Mackay campus.

"The staff are passionate and devoted to their courses and students' which is vital for teachers and their industries'" he said.

"Added to this' the support from the Vice Chancellor and Vice-President Academic assure me that our visions align and our goals can be achieved."

During his time with the Army' he developed lessons and managed Advanced First Aid courses. Following his career in Defence' he provided safety and emergency response training and conducted and reported on emergency response drills on oil and gas facilities and platforms in the Bass Strait region.

He had various roles at CDU' including Education Program Manager for the VET School of Trades and as Acting Head of School in 2020. From there' he held the positions of Director VET Business Operations at the Batchelor Institute for Indigenous Tertiary Education' as well as the vacated role of Dean from January 2022' until his employment with CQU.

"My partner' Ally and I am looking forward to being part of the CQU community'" he said'

"We have five daughters and 16 grandchildren' who are all looking forward to visiting the region with us.

"We are looking to settle in the region after a lifetime of constant moving and spend our leisure time boating around the Queensland coast."