About Skillset | Building Skills, Careers & Communities

Creating life-changing opportunities across regional NSW.

Skillset has been creating opportunities since 1982, connecting people, skills, and businesses so communities across regional NSW can thrive. What began as the region’s first Group Training Organisation with one office and 22 apprentices has grown into a leading not-for-profit driving education, employment, and community development.

Our story

From tackling skills shortages to launching programs that open doors, every milestone reflects our commitment to making a difference. Today, we deliver a network of initiatives, from apprenticeships and workforce programs to Skillset Senior College and sustainability projects, helping individuals find pathways that change lives and supporting businesses every step of the way.

1982–2005: Foundation and Growth - Founded as Central West Group Apprentices in Bathurst.
2006–2015: Expansion and Education - Renamed Skillset; launched Land Works; opened Skillset Senior College.
2016–2025: Innovation and Recognition - Introduced Youth Connect; Workforce Australia Local Jobs; celebrated 40 years; won Excellence in Group Training at NSW/ACT AEN awards in 2023 and 2025; expanded to Broken Hill.

Our Vision & Purpose

Our vision is to create life-changing opportunities for people and communities in regional NSW.

Our purpose is creating and sustaining innovative and effective partnerships to generate employment opportunities through education and skills development for people across regional NSW.

Respect

We treat every individual with dignity, fairness, and empathy. We listen first and value diverse experiences and perspectives.

Collaboration

We work collaboratively to create a positive workplace that encourages a high-performance team environment.

Community

We exist to support people to grow, learn, and succeed. Making a positive difference is at the heart of our purpose.

Professionalism

We act with accountability, reliability, and care in everything we do. Our standards reflect the trust placed in us every day.

Integrity

We do what’s right, even when it’s not the easiest option. Honesty and transparency guide every decision we make.

Helping Others

We exist to support people to grow, learn, and succeed. Making a positive difference is at the heart of our purpose.

Employer of choice

We’re committed to creating safe, supportive and meaningful workplaces where people can learn, grow and succeed. From apprentices and trainees to experienced professionals, we invest in our people so they feel valued, supported and proud of the work they do.

Service excellence

We deliver reliable, high-quality services through clear processes, strong communication and genuine care. Our teams focus on getting the details right, meeting obligations and providing practical support that makes things easier for the people we work with.

Trusted partner

We work alongside businesses, communities and individuals as a long-term partner, not just a provider. By understanding local needs and building strong relationships, we help create outcomes that last, for people, organisations and regional NSW.

Impact by numbers

We’re proud to create real opportunities and lasting impact across Western NSW. Here’s what that looks like in numbers:

88%

of our business is repeat business

40%

of our clients have worked with us for over 10 years

81% completion rate

or apprenticeships and traineeships compared to an industry average of 55%

Largest employer

of apprentices and trainees in Western NSW

25,807 individuals

engaged over the past 3 years

Servicing an area of 337,561km

Our extensive service area covers 48% of Western NSW

Narelle Stocks

Chief Executive Officer

Narelle is passionate about improving lives in Western NSW. With a career dedicated to community-based organisations, she champions innovative partnerships that create life-changing opportunities and positive impact across regional communities.

Ben Ruddy

Senior Manager - Workforce Programs

Ben has been with Skillset since 2011, supporting apprentices, trainees, and businesses across the region. With a background in civil construction, he’s passionate about helping local people build strong career pathways.

Astrid Acreman

Senior Manager - People and Culture

Astrid brings over 20 years of HR expertise, driving talent development and workplace culture. She’s committed to building engaged teams and ensuring Skillset remains a great place to work while supporting organisational growth.

Alex Banner

Senior Manager - Business Services

Alex has 20+ years’ experience in strategic growth and innovation. She leads Business Services, covering governance, corporate services, operations, and marketing. Alex is passionate about collaboration and creating meaningful change for regional communities.

Emily Gallwey

Senior Manager - Finance

Emily is a Chartered Accountant with a decade of experience in accounting and advisory. She oversees financial strategy, compliance, and reporting, ensuring transparency and ethical practices that align with Skillset’s values.