{"id":6048,"date":"2026-03-09T07:58:47","date_gmt":"2026-03-09T07:58:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/skillset.ap.applyflow.com\/?page_id=6048"},"modified":"2026-04-14T12:53:03","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T12:53:03","slug":"about","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/about\/","title":{"rendered":"About"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n<!-- Header Start -->\n                              <h2>Creating life-changing opportunities across regional NSW.<\/h2>\n                                            <p>Skillset has been creating opportunities since 1982, connecting people, skills, and businesses so communities across regional NSW can thrive. What began as the region&#8217;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.<\/p>\n                          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Mobile-About.png\" alt=\"Header Image\" \/>\n                                      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Mobile-About.png\" alt=\"Header Image\" \/>\n<!-- Header End --><!-- Image + Text Block Start -->\n                              <h2>Our story<\/h2>\n                                                        <p>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.<\/p>\n                    <ul>\n                                              <li><p><strong>1982-2005:<\/strong> <strong>Foundation and Growth<\/strong> &#8211; Founded as Central West Group Apprentices in Bathurst.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n                                              <li><p><strong>2006-2015: Expansion and Education<\/strong> &#8211; Renamed Skillset; launched Land Works; opened Skillset Senior College.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n                                              <li><p><strong>2016-2025:<\/strong> <strong>Innovation and Recognition<\/strong> &#8211; 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.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n                                          <\/ul>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Group-5172814-10.png\" alt=\"Section Image\" \/>\n<!-- Image + Text Block End --><!-- Image + Text Block Start -->\n                              <h2>Our Vision &amp; Purpose<\/h2>\n                                                        <p><strong>Our vision<\/strong> is to create life-changing opportunities for people and communities in regional NSW.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong>Our purpose<\/strong> is creating and sustaining innovative and effective partnerships to generate employment opportunities through education and skills development for people across regional NSW.<\/p>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/about.png\" alt=\"Section Image\" \/>\n<!-- Image + Text Block End --><!-- 3-4 Column Text Block + Icon Cards Start -->\n                                                        <h2>Our Values\u00a0<\/h2>\n                          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Respect-1.svg\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h5>Respect<\/h5>\n                                                                                <p>We treat every individual with dignity, fairness, and empathy. We listen first and value diverse experiences and perspectives.<\/p>\n                          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/values-icon-container.svg\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h5>Collaboration<\/h5>\n                                                                                <p>We work collaboratively to create a positive workplace that encourages a high-performance team environment.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n                          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Frame-1686555400-1.svg\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h5>Community<\/h5>\n                                                                                <p>We exist to support people to grow, learn, and succeed. Making a positive difference is at the heart of our purpose.<\/p>\n                          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Frame-1686555400-2.svg\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h5>Professionalism<\/h5>\n                                                                                <p>We act with accountability, reliability, and care in everything we do. Our standards reflect the trust placed in us every day.<\/p>\n                          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Frame-1686555400-3.svg\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h5>Integrity<\/h5>\n                                                                                <p>We do what&#8217;s right, even when it&#8217;s not the easiest option. Honesty and transparency guide every decision we make.<\/p>\n                          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Frame-1686555400-4.svg\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h5>Helping Others<\/h5>\n                                                                                <p>We exist to support people to grow, learn, and succeed. Making a positive difference is at the heart of our purpose.<\/p>\n<!-- 3-4 Column Text Block + Icon Cards End -->\n<!-- 3-Column Overview Start -->\n                          <h2>Strategic pillars<\/h2>\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Frame-1686555708-60.png\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h4>Employer of choice<\/h4>\n                                                                                <p>We&#8217;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.<\/p>\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Frame-1686555708-59.png\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h4>Service excellence<\/h4>\n                                                                                <p>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.<\/p>\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Frame-1686555708-58.png\" alt=\"Card Image\" \/>\n                                                      <h4>Trusted partner<\/h4>\n                                                                                <p>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.<\/p>\n<!-- 3-Column Overview End --><!-- 3-4 Row Feature Start -->\n                      <h2>Impact by numbers<\/h2>\n                                <p>We&#8217;re proud to create real opportunities and lasting impact across Western NSW. Here&#8217;s what that looks like in numbers:<\/p>\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/briefcase-1.svg\" alt=\"Card Icon\" \/>\n                                                  <h4>88%<\/h4>\n                                                                          <p>of our business is repeat business\u00a0<\/p>\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/users.svg\" alt=\"Card Icon\" \/>\n                                                  <h4>40%<\/h4>\n                                                                          <p>of\u00a0our\u00a0clients have worked with\u00a0us\u00a0for over 10 years\u00a0<\/p>\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/chart-bar-1.svg\" alt=\"Card Icon\" \/>\n                                                  <h4>81% completion rate<\/h4>\n                                                                          <p>or apprenticeships and traineeships compared to an industry average of 55%\u00a0<\/p>\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/map-2.svg\" alt=\"Card Icon\" \/>\n                                                  <h4>Largest employer<\/h4>\n                                                                          <p>of apprentices and trainees in Western NSW <\/p>\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/heart-2.svg\" alt=\"Card Icon\" \/>\n                                                  <h4>25,807 individuals<\/h4>\n                                                                          <p>engaged over the past 3 years\u00a0<\/p>\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/squares-filled-1.svg\" alt=\"Card Icon\" \/>\n                                                  <h4>Servicing an area of\u00a0337,561km<\/h4>\n                                                                          <p>Our extensive service area covers 48% of Western NSW<\/p>\n<!-- 3-4 Row Feature End -->\n                      <p>Team Members<\/p>\n                                <h2>Meet our leaders<\/h2>\n                        <button type=\"button\" data-specialty=\"leadership-team\">\n                Leadership Team              <\/button>\n                        <button type=\"button\" data-specialty=\"board\">\n                Board              <\/button>\n                      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/narelle-stocks.png\" alt=\"Narelle Stocks Image\" \/>\n                      <h4>Narelle Stocks<\/h4>\n                                              <h6>Chief Executive Officer<\/h6>\n                                          <p>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.<\/p>\n                      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ben-ruddy.png\" alt=\"Ben Ruddy Image\" \/>\n                      <h4>Ben Ruddy<\/h4>\n                                              <h6>Senior Manager &#8211; Workforce Programs<\/h6>\n                                          <p>Ben has been with Skillset since 2011, supporting apprentices, trainees, and businesses across the region. With a background in civil construction, he&#8217;s passionate about helping local people build strong career pathways.<\/p>\n                      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/astrid-acreman.png\" alt=\"Astrid Acreman Image\" \/>\n                      <h4>Astrid Acreman<\/h4>\n                                              <h6>Senior Manager &#8211; People and Culture<\/h6>\n                                          <p>Astrid brings over 20 years of HR expertise, driving talent development and workplace culture. She&#8217;s committed to building engaged teams and ensuring Skillset remains a great place to work while supporting organisational growth.<\/p>\n                      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/alex-banner.png\" alt=\"Alex Banner Image\" \/>\n                      <h4>Alex Banner<\/h4>\n                                              <h6>Senior Manager &#8211; Business Services<\/h6>\n                                          <p>Alex has 20+ years&#8217; 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.<\/p>\n                      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/emily-gallwey.png\" alt=\"Emily Gallwey Image\" \/>\n                      <h4>Emily Gallwey<\/h4>\n                                              <h6>Senior Manager &#8211; Finance<\/h6>\n                                          <p>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&#8217;s values.<\/p>\n        <button data-offset=\"9\">Load More<\/button>\n<!-- Logo Carousel Start -->\n<section>\n          <h2>We like to work in\u00a0partnership\u00a0with our\u00a0community.<\/h2>\n          \n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ulan-coal-glencore.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/BNL-Timber-Hardware.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/parkes-shire-council.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/glenray.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/NuPAL.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/bathurst.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/glencore.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/yan-coal.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/nestle.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/orange-city-council.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/devro.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n                                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/thales.svg\" alt=\" Icon\" \/>\n  <\/section>\n<!-- Logo Carousel End --><!-- CTA Start -->\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-01.cms-ap-v2i.applyflow.com\/skillset\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Image-Container-5.png\" alt=\"CTA Image\" \/>\n                              <h2>Not sure where to start?  <\/h2>\n                                            <p>Stay updated with all the latest news and career support resources from Skillset, or call us if you want to chat to our team.<\/p>\n                                                                <a href=\"\/contact\" target=\"_self\">\n                        Partner with Us                                              <\/a>\n                                                                <a href=\"javascript:void(0);\">\n                        Sign up for our\u00a0Newsletter                                              <\/a>\n<!-- CTA End -->\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>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&#8217;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&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":18,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-6048","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/af-api\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6048","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/af-api\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/af-api\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/af-api\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/af-api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6048"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/af-api\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6048\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7357,"href":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/af-api\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6048\/revisions\/7357"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/skillset.com.au\/af-api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6048"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}