1 Sept 2021
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
Richard Variakojis was employed by the Apprentice and Traineeship Company (ATC) as a School-Based trainee back in 2010 undertaking a traineeship in Animal Studies (Level 2).
To complete the on the job training for this traineeship, Richard was hosted to the Eagles Heritage and Raptor Wildlife Centre in Margaret River, within the South West of Western Australia.
ATC and Richard’s host employer were so impressed with his attitude and enthusiasm that they nominated him for the Group Training WA School Based Trainee of the year award.
Richard won the 2010 WA award and went on to be runner up on the National stage.
He then completed a further traineeship in Animal Technology (Level 3) while still employed with ATC and attending school. After completing this traineeship and high school, Richard went on to further studies, completing a double major in Zoology and Indigenous History and Knowledge at University.
Richard is currently working as a National Park Ranger for the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation on the Murujuga National Park, Burrup Peninsula, where he is undertaking fauna, flora and petroglyph surveys.
Murujuga National Park is best known for its dense concentration of rock art, petroglyphs, with some dating back approximately 47,000 years.
Richard is a perfect example of how a simple start in a school-based traineeship can inspire you on to further studies that can lead to a rewarding career.
2010: Richard (Centre) receiving his award
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Media contact: Irene Walker, Apprentice Employment Network WA, Mb: 0412 183 776
Email: eo@aenwa.com.au
If you are interested in a Traineeship or Apprenticeship, contact the Apprentice Employment Network WA who can help start your career by putting you in contact with one of our Network employers.
The Apprentice Employment Network WA (AEN WA) is the peak association representing 23 member Group Training Organisations operating in Western Australia. It was incorporated in 1993 and is a not-for-profit registered charity. AEN WA members are located throughout metropolitan and regional areas of Western Australia and deliver apprenticeships and traineeships within a wide range of industries.
