Narrabri Shire Council, New South Wales, is addressing their chronic skills shortage issues by growing their own qualifi ed staff.
Manager Road Services, Michael Cain, took the fi rst step on his Local Government career path when he commenced with Council as a Trainee Engineering Officer in early 2009.
The two year contract provided the opportunity to complete a Certifi cate III in Engineering – Technical as well as gain meaningful work experience.
During the course of his training, Cain applied for and was successful in attaining a new position at Council as a Design Officer.
Now in a permanent role Cain completed an Associate Degree in Engineering (Civil).
He went on to achieve a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) majoring in Civil Engineering in April 2018, greatly assisted by Council’s Professional Development program through which he received study leave, fi nancial assistance and mentoring.
As a Design Offi cer, Cain was given opportunities to act in the role of Manager Design Services, gaining valuable experience managing and organising a team.
His aptitude for leadership developed and his demonstrated competence and experience gained provided further opportunities such as a secondment as Road Services Engineering Officer and Road Services Operations Engineer.
Within these roles, Cain was given numerous opportunities to act in the position of Manager Road Services.
When the position of Manager Road Services became vacant in October 2019, Cain was appointed to the position.
Over the span of ten years of service at the shire, Cain advanced from Trainee Engineering Officer to Manager Road Services due to the substantial support and opportunities provided by Narrabri Shire Council.
