A visit to APM Benalla would change his life.
Quaid was encouraged to join the Disability Employment Service program at APM.
He had previous experience working as a mechanic, but didn’t have any formal qualifications.
But he had a strong passion for cars.
Quaid was unsure about what career path he wanted to take and would often get frustrated during his appointments.
He explained to his APM employment consultant that he experienced anxiety, depression and had chronic shoulder pain from a past injury.
APM worked closely with Quaid and supported him to define his interests, update his resumé and look at jobs.
Janelle Dinnie from APM Benalla said given Quaid’s love of cars, his consultant started to reach out to local car dealerships to see if there were any opportunities that would be suitable.
“During this time, Quaid also moved out of his family home into his grandparents’ home,” she said.
“This enabled him to have greater support, and his consultant noticed a significant shift in his demeanour and confidence, almost immediately.”
APM organised for Quaid to attend an interview for a car detailing position at the local Ford dealership.
Before the interview, APM worked with Quaid on interview techniques to ensure that he was as confident as possible and able to put his best foot forward.
“Quaid secured a casual position, and APM was able to offer the employer a wage subsidy to assist during training,” Janelle said.
APM also provided Quaid with a fuel voucher to get to and from work and purchased work boots that he needed for his new job.
Quaid said he loved going to work.
“I wash and detail all the cars,” he said.
“I’m a car guy, and it’s never a hassle to get out of bed in the morning.”
Shortly after starting, in July 2024, Quaid was offered a permanent part-time position because he demonstrated a strong work ethic and incredibly high standards when cleaning and detailing cars.
The team at Ford has been so welcoming to Quaid, and he has embraced his new work environment.
His employer said Quaid had fit into the business well.
Quaid started off with a simple role, but within a short period of time, he was being trusted with a lot more technical responsibilities because he proved himself.
“Quaid has since achieved his goal of financial independence, moving out of his grandparents’ home and into a place of his own,” Janelle said.
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