Diploma helps Ben earn a new job and a Queensland Training Award recognition

Townsville CQUniversity Diploma of Leadership and Management student Ben Jones is savouring the best of both worlds' after his training helped him secure not only a new job' but a Queensland Training Award nomination.

Ben is a finalist in the Vocational Student of the Year category of the North Queensland Regional Queensland Training Awards' and he credits his studies for helping him achieve the accolade.

'It's good to be a finalist – it's great to be recognised for my efforts'' he said.

'The Diploma and vocational study I did with CQUni helped me immensely' not just by doing the course' but also obtaining a better understanding of how businesses operate and do the things they do.'

That very understanding helped Ben secure a new job with Sherrin Rentals' an earthmoving hire company in Townsville' that supplies excavators and other machinery to local businesses' like Ergon Energy.

'I've been in the job for two months after a leaving a job of eight years. It was daunting' but I've hit the ground running.

'They were after a diesel fitter' but also someone that would take ownership of the machinery and workshop to ensure they are maintained correctly.

'I used my diploma in the interview and negotiation process' pointing out that I wasn't just a tradesman' but that I also have extra skills.

'The Diploma definitely made me more well-rounded.'

Since he secured the new full-time job and the responsibility of being a father to his young son' Rohan' Ben was grateful for the flexibility of the course.

'The diploma will enhance what you've already gained in an apprenticeship'' he said.

'For anyone who has completed a trade' I'd recommend studying a Diploma of Leadership and Management through CQUni to enhance their skills and knowledge.'

The winners of the North Queensland Regional Queensland Training Awards will be announced on 23 July.