Episódios
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Happy holidays! Join us in this special Year in Review episode as we wrap up Season 2 with our host, Callum Irving. As 2023 draws to a close, we reflect on a year brimming with insightful podcast episodes and social media content, all designed to support and inspire graduates and junior staff in the Australian Public Service (APS).
This special episode is a collection of the year's highlights, showcasing engaging stories, key insights, and practical advice from throughout the year. During Season 2, Callum has interviewed current and former APS graduates, staff from various regions within and outside Canberra, and numerous experts and professionals, each contributing their unique perspectives.
So, grab a comfortable seat and tune in as Callum revisits the best moments of 2023 on Gradcast!
Gradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What is the mission of APS Academy and what does it offer for APS grads? What should APS grads know about the APS Craft? What is the Australian Government Graduate Development Program?
On the 10th of October 2023, Gradcast hosted its first live podcast event, where we invited current and aspiring Australian Public Service graduates and junior staff to experience the recording firsthand and participate in a live Q&A session. The live podcast featured a special guest, Kristin Boag, Director of Leadership and Graduate Development, APS Academy, APS Commission.
This is part 2 of our host Callum Irving’s conversation with Kristin which focused on insights and practical advice for those seeking to upskill while working in the Australian Public Service. We hear from Kristin about the APS Academy, APS Craft and the Australian Government Graduate Development Program.
The episode begins with interviews with our event attendees, who share their experiences working in the Australian Public Service and offer advice for someone considering working in the APS.
Join us as we hear more of the Q&A session where our event attendees ask Kristin their questions about what is ahead for the future of the APS.
Show notes:
APS Academy | About Us APS Academy | 2024 APS Graduate development opportunities APS Academy | APS Craft Wheel Writing for busy readers: Communicate more effectively in the real world LinkedIn | Kristin BoagGradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What qualities are employers in the APS seeking in graduates and junior staff? What skills can we expect to be in high demand in the next 5 years? What is the APS reform agenda? How might artificial intelligence (A.I.) impact the way we work in the APS?
On the 10th of October 2023, Gradcast hosted its first live podcast event, where we invited current and aspiring Australian Public Service graduates and junior staff to experience the recording firsthand and participate in a live Q&A session. The live podcast featured a special guest, Kristin Boag, Director of Leadership and Graduate Development, APS Academy, APS Commission.
This is Part 1 of our host, Callum Irving’s, conversation with Kristin, where they discussed her journey from being an APS graduate to her current position at the APS Academy, and delved into key topics concerning the future of the APS. These topics include in-demand skills, the APS reform agenda, and the role of artificial intelligence (AI).
Tune in to also hear a Q&A segment where our event attendees posed their questions to Kristin about what's ahead for the future of the APS.
Show notes:
APS Academy | About UsAPS Academy | 2024 APS Graduate development opportunitiesAPS Reform | Outcomes and InitiativesDTA | Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in the APSWork with Purpose | EP#84: How is Australia’s public sector using generative AI?LinkedIn | Kristin BoagGradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Are you curious about what neurodiversity means and why it's becoming a significant topic in workplaces? Do you want to know how the Australian Public Service (APS) is creating an inclusive environment for people with neurodivergent conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia?
In this episode, we are joined by Robin Edmonds, the Assistant Director of the Media Reform Branch at the Department of Infrastructure and Co-founder of the Public Sector Neurodiversity Community of Practice, and David Smith, an Autism and Neurodiversity employment specialist and advocate who runs 'Employ for Ability.'
Listen as Robin and David discuss what neurodiversity is, the initiatives the APS is undertaking for inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals, and organisations and services available to assist people with neurodivergence in entering or sustaining employment in the APS. Additionally, don't miss Robin's rundown of various software and tools that can help neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
Whether you're a current APS grad, a potential recruit, or an employer looking to diversify your workforce, this episode will provide you with valuable insights.
Links:
David Smith | LinkedInRobin Edmonds | LinkedInPublic Sector Neurodiversity Community of PracticeEmploy for AbilityGradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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From application to interview, the APS graduate program selection process is extensive, and it can be quite overwhelming. What should you say during the interview? How can you prepare? And, most crucially, how do you stand out?
In today's episode, we're taking a step back in time. We're revisiting a memorable segment from last year that provided our listeners with valuable tips on how to excel in job interviews, with a special focus on those designed for APS graduate programs.
During our first segment, we'll hear Season 1 co-host Krishna Shukla's discussion with Lisa Tozer, also known as 'The Interview Coach'. Lisa shares invaluable tips for interview preparation, weaving in her own experiences and observations. She also delves deep into the reasons why behavioural questions have become such a prevalent and significant part of modern interview techniques.
But that's not all. To provide a tangible and relatable perspective on the APS Graduate program interview experience, we've invited two guests who've walked that path. We are joined by Nidhi Yogi, a former Policy and Corporate Graduate from the Department of Defence, and Caitlin Sandercock, who was at the time serving as a Grants Officer at the Department of Industry, Science, Energy, and Resources. They will share their journeys, the challenges they faced, and the strategies they employed to secure their positions.
Gradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Understanding risk and fraud is a critical part of working as a graduate in agencies that handle customers’ private information. Fraudsters can employ scams targeting both customers and agency personnel through various tactics such as cunning emails to deceptive phone calls and text messages.
In this episode of Gradcast, hosted by former Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC) graduate Callum Irving, Myo Myat Htin Aung, a current graduate at the CSC shares insights from his rotation in the CSC Risk team, shedding light on the critical role risk and fraud awareness play in agencies handling customers’ private information.
Listen as Myo delves into key concepts he learned during his rotation, such as the three lines of defence model and the fraud triangle. He also discusses recent high-profile data breaches such as Medibank and Optus breaches that broke the news in recent years, and how they impacted CSC’s understanding of fraud and risk. Stay tuned as Myo reveals the red flags that professionals in similar positions should be vigilant about and highlights the various measures CSC has implemented to protect itself against fraud and risk.
Tune in now to equip yourself with essential knowledge and insights to stay ahead in the constant battle against fraudsters.
Gradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Although Canberra serves as the vibrant heart of the Australian public service (APS), a number of government agencies are based in regions beyond this central hub.
In this episode, we delve into the unique experiences of those working within the APS in these regional areas. Join us as we engage with three guests from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), based in Armidale, NSW. They will shed light on their journey through the APVMA's graduate program, and their subsequent roles within the agency.
In our first segment, you will hear insights from Merinda Purcell, Risk Manager at Permits, APVMA, and Erin Boatswain, an Assistant Director (a/g) at Chemical Reviews, APVMA. Tune in to their stories, as they recount the journey from the dynamic urban life in Canberra and Sydney to the tranquil confines of Armidale.
Our second segment features Natalie Gosper, Manager at the Adverse Experience Reporting Program, APVMA, who shares her stories, highlighting the transition from the smaller town of Parkes, NSW, to Armidale.
Listen to Merinda, Erin, and Natalie as they talk about their respective roles at the APVMA, their experiences before and after relocating, motivations for joining APVMA, and experiences in the graduate program. They also offer perspectives on the decentralisation of the APS and its potential implications for the future of the public service.
Gradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this special edition of Gradcast, our host Callum Irving interviews one of Canberra’s favourite internet personalities ‘bri_jean198’ aka Brianna Williams.
Bri used to work as a recruitment admin in the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development before she became a TikTok sensation with over 22K followers creating entertaining videos about Canberra and working in the APS. She is currently a real estate agent for LJ Hooker, where her job is to sell property in Canberra.
Their conversation covers a range of topics such as:
How Bri became a TikTok sensationAdvice for those applying for the APS graduate programWorking in the APS as a neurodiverse personAdvice for house hunting in Canberra'5 Voices' personalities in the workplaceDon't miss the rapid questions segment where Callum challenges Bri to answer as many questions as possible in 2 minutes!
Check out Bri's social channels here:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bri_jean198Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bri_jean198/Gradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The 2023 cohort of graduates in the Australian Public Service has now started their first rotation.
In this episode, we hear stories about what happens after you accept your graduate program offer and the start of your journey as an APS graduate. Our guest for this episode is Tom Dobrochodow, who is Callum's fellow Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC) alumni and work bestie. Both Tom and Callum have experienced starting an APS graduate program firsthand when they began theirs at CSC at the start of 2022.
Tom’s start to the grad program was full of surprises. He had to move from Melbourne to Canberra just four days before the program's start and was then told to work from home due to the pandemic restrictions. Despite the challenges, Tom has persevered and is now working in the Relationship Management department at CSC.
You will also hear from a couple of new graduates from CSC who share their experiences and discuss the resources that helped them when applying for the graduate program.
Stick around till the end of the episode for a new segment on Gradcast – Fun Facts about the Australian Public Service (FFATAPS). You will hear facts like: what were the original departments of the APS when it was established?, and what percentage of the APS workforce are graduates? Listen now to find out!
Gradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Are you starting your APS Graduate program this year, or have you just completed it?
Gradcast is the perfect resource for you to make the most out of your experience. Our podcast features tips, advice and real-life stories to help you navigate the APS Graduate Program and beyond.
As part of the grad experience, the year after your grad program is just as important. Host Callum Irving, who has just completed his own grad year, will share his experiences, and provide relatable insights for those who have recently completed their program.
In this episode, Callum will introduce you to Gradcast and how it can benefit you. We'll then start our conversations with graduates, employers, and senior professionals in the Australian Public Service from our next episode.
In addition to revisiting important topics such as APS Graduate Program applications, interview preparation, and engaging with your managers, Season 2 will cover new topics that are relevant to the everyday life of an APS graduate and feature exciting new guests AND guest hosts.
Season 2 will be more than just a podcast. We've recently launched our TikTok page where we post humorous skits, behind-the-scenes, key insights, and more. You can stay updated with the latest from Gradcast on our Instagram page and find additional resources on our LinkedIn page that are essential for your pre-grad, grad, or post-grad year.
Let Gradcast guide you through your journey in the world of the Australian Public Service with our expert tips, advice, and real-life stories.
Gradcast is produced by contentgroup and sponsored by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Happy holidays to all aspiring, current and ex-APS graduates. In this special Year In Review episode, we reflect back on the year that Gradcast was established.
In March 2022, a new podcast series called ‘Gradcast’ was announced. A monthly podcast hosted by current and ex- APS grads, for current and aspiring APS grads. It explored different aspects of the life of APS grads and provided insights and tips in a one-of-a-kind format that grads have not seen before.
We are now at the end of the year, and have lots and lots of valuable stories, insights, and tips and tricks to look back on. Mantras from a legendary basketball player, advice from an interview coach, insights from a mental health professional, a glimpse into the future of the APS… we’ve had them all!
So, let's sit back and relax as Gradcast co-host Callum Irving takes us back to all the best moments in 2022.
Gradcast will be back in the new year. Follow us on social media for the latest updates:
LinkedInInstagramTikTokHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What happens after a grad year? How should grads prepare for a role in the APS? What about for a role in the private sector? We seek for advice from current and ex-APS grads, so you don’t have to.
It’s now December, and we are almost at the end of Season 1. As current graduates, including our co-host Callum are approaching the end of their grad year, this episode is all about planning for life after grad programs.
Megan Aponte-Payne makes a return to the studio since her appearance in Episode 6. Megan is an International Trade Specialist at the Office of Supply Chain Resilience at the Department of Industry, Science and Resources. She was a graduate at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet in 2014.
Making a Gradcast debut is Chun-Yin San, a Practice Lead at ThinkPlace, a leading global design firm founded in Australia, and the Licensee and Director of TEDx Canberra. Chun Yin has worked for government departments, not-for-profits, and academic institutions delivering and implementing transformative projects. He was a graduate at the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources in 2018.
We also hear from Callum’s fellow grads at the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC) who share their plans for after their grad programs and advice for current APS grads.
3 things discussed in this episode:
Transitioning from a grad program to a post-grad program role.Advice for graduates at the end of their grad year.The benefits of undertaking an APS grad program.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Do you have to move to Canberra for your APS Graduate Program? What extracurricular activities should you be involved in to add to your resume? What is the application process like? How do you take part in APS graduate-led organisations and what are the benefits of being part of them? We have answers to some key questions you should know before applying for your APS Graduate Program.
In this Q&A episode, we are joined by Victoria Vuori, a current graduate in the Taxation stream at the Australian Taxation Office, and David Randall, a Spatial Analyst at the Department of Home Affairs. Victoria is currently one of three co-chairs for the Graduate Data Network, and shares with us the benefits of joining APS graduate-led organisations like GDN. David reflects on his time during his Graduate Program at the Department of Home Affairs and shares how he secured a role at the Department after his program.
Stick around on this episode, as Gradcast co-host Callum goes outside of the studio for some special interviews at the recent Innovate Australia event hosted by the Public Sector Network. He asks some of the attendees the question, “What advice would you say to a Grads at the start of their Grad year?”.
3 things discussed in this episode:
What to expect when starting your APS Graduate ProgramHow to take part in graduate-led organisationsOpportunities available after your Graduate ProgramHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Do you have questions about the APS Graduate Programs? Are you wondering how to pick the right Graduate Program for you? What skills are currently in demand in the APS? How do you make the most of your rotations? We have more answers to questions we received from our listeners over the past few months.
In this episode, we continue our conversation with the expert of APS Graduate Programs – Craig Smith, Assistant Director – Career Pathways at Australian Public Service Commission. Craig shares his own career story from coming out of university and reminds us that Graduate Programs are not the only way into the APS. He discusses the range of career pathways there are into the APS, and tips for graduates about to finish their APS Graduate Program this year.
Craig also provides some insights about what the future of the APS, and APS Graduate Programs might look like. Notably, some upcoming announcements that will come regarding the APS Academy Campus initiative. While waiting for these announcements, anyone looking for career guidance can contact [email protected] or visit the APSC’s Career Pathways Portal.
3 things discussed in this episode:
APS Graduate Programs and other pathways into the APSTips for graduates after finishing their Graduate ProgramsThe future of APS Graduate ProgramsRelevant Links:
Career Pathways Portal: https://www.apsjobs.gov.au/s/career-pathways-homeCraig Smith LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-smith-994640246/Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Do you have questions about the APS Graduate Programs? Are you wondering where, how, and when to apply for APS Graduate programs? What Department to go for? Or what are graduate programs? We have the answers to all your questions.
In this episode, we are joined by the expert of APS Graduate Program – Craig Smith, Assistant Director - Career Pathways at Australian Public Service Commission.
Craig has been part of the Australian Public Service for over 21 years across different departments and agencies. In this episode, Craig talks about the inception and future of the APS Graduate programs.
Over the last couple of months the listeners have sent us questions about the Graduate program. We took this opportunity to ask Craig all your questions and more. From details of the application process to understanding streams, we have covered it all.
Craig will continue the conversation and answer more of your questions in the next episode. Keep an eye on this space for APS Graduate Program 101 (Part 2).
3 things discussed in this episode:
How, where and when to apply for APS Graduate programsAPS Graduate Program rotations and optionsThe future of APS Graduate programRelevant Links:
APS Jobs: https://www.apsjobs.gov.au/s/graduate-portal Craig Smith LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-smith-994640246/ APS Professional Streams: https://www.apsc.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/aps-professional-streamsHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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At times, APS Graduate programs can be a lot to take on. Especially for fresh university graduates - getting acquainted to a working environment, working with a team, meeting deadlines and even moving cities may impact their physical and mental health. What can we do about it? And what is the APSC doing about it?
This is a special episode. In this episode, we continue our conversation on mental health focusing on the R U Ok? Day on the 8th of September and the World Suicide Prevention Day on the 10th of September.
In this episode, we are joined by Sam Junor, the Framework Implementation Lead at the APS Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Unit. Sam shares her personal and professional journey including the ups and downs in her own mental health while settling into the graduate program. Sam advices to indulge in activities outside of work like pub trivia and walks near the lake. Sounds like creative and easy tips, don’t they?
Sam talks about her passion for mental health reflecting on her experience as an APS Graduate and managing graduate programs. Importantly, she walks us through the Mental Health Framework being implemented across different departments and agencies to develop literacy, capability and expertise in mental health and suicide prevention.
3 things learnt:
About APS Mental Health and Suicide Prevention UnitResponsibility of Graduate mentorsMaintaining mental health as an APS GraduateLinks:
APS Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Unit: https://www.apsc.gov.au/working-aps/diversity-and-inclusion/aps-mental-health-and-suicide-prevention-unit Compassionate Foundations: https://www.apsacademy.gov.au/compassionate-foundations-suicide-prevention-capability-suiteHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Did you know that 2 in 5 young people aged 16-24 years have experienced a mental health issue in the past 12 months?
Being a university student or a grad is a challenging time in life, with career pressure, confusion about identity and changes in relationships. This can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
It is important to talk about mental health, and R U OK? Day is a national day reminding Australians to have conversations with people who may be struggling with mental health. This year, it is on Thursday 8th of September, and the theme is ‘No qualifications needed’. Click on the link below to learn more.
In this episode, we have Rachel Clements, the Principal psychologist at the Centre for Corporate Health, and an expert panelist from the R U OK? Day Conversation Think Tank since 2014. She explains what the R U OK? Day is, and shares advice for promoting mental health wellbeing from her experiences consulting with workplaces in the public and private sectors.
3 things discussed in the episode:
Workplace wellbeing issues young professionals experience, and coping methods.Best practices to promote mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.Letting go of barriers to asking, ‘R U OK?’.Relevant links from the episode:
R U OK? Day 2022 Campaign Video: https://www.ruok.org.au/join-r-u-ok-dayHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Do you identify yourself as part of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community? Are you an APS Graduate looking to climb the APS ladder? In this episode, we will listen to the exceptional career of Tarran Backhus, Indigenous Liaison Officer and Diversity Team Leader at the Department of Finance.
Listen to Tarran, a Wiradjuri woman, who started her career in the APS as a Graduate of the Department of Health in 2014. Over the 8 years in the APS, she has worked with three different federal Departments in human resources and policy teams. Outside of work, she is a Business Manager for Gillawara Arts and the Chair of Hockey ACT’s Reconciliation Advisory Committee. Tarran shares her experience of being a First Nations woman in the APS, her different roles in the APS, and her scheduling skills to create a work-life balance.
3 things that were discussed in this episode:
Climbing the APS ladderPrograms and policies for First Nations People in the APSManaging extracurricular commitmentsRelevant links from the episode:
Tarran Bakhus - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarran-backhus-794a6a43/Gillawara Arts - https://www.gillawarraarts.com/Hockey ACT - https://www.hockeyact.org.au/play-hockey/how-do-i-get-started-/First Nations Resources - https://www.russh.com/netflix-naidoc-week-films-and-tv-2022/Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Do you identify yourself as part of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community? Are you looking to join the Australian Public Service? Exploring your graduate program options? Look no further.In this episode, we will take a look at the First Nations Public Servants, in particular, the First Nations Graduates from National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).
Listen to Indi Lowe, a Koori woman from Peek Whurrong mob in South-West Victoria. In 2021, Indi started as a graduate with the NIAA and now has grown within the team to become the Land Rights Policy Adviser. Indi shares her story of starting as a graduate and talks about the different projects she had the opportunity to work on. She also sheds light on the First Nations' representation within the APS and lists credible resources to increase our knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, peoples, and histories.
3 things discussed in the episode:
First Nations representation within the Australian Public ServiceThe range of projects as part of the NIAA graduate programOpportunities after a graduate programRelevant links from the episode:
Indi Lowe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indi-amaroo-lowe-95498689/NIAA Graduate Program: https://www.niaa.gov.au/graduate-careers/programHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Are you confused between a career in the public or private sector? Looking for insights from the industry to make your decision? Listen to this special episode of Gradcast, in collaboration with the Future Leaders’ Program of the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA)
We are halfway through Season 1 and wanted to switch things up. This episode is about a debate between the Public and Private sectors, we answer the question a lot of students in their final year at university are asking ‘Why be a public servant?’
Talking about the perks of working in the Australian Public Service, we have Megan Aponte-Payne from the Office of Supply Chain Resilience at the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. Making his case for working in the private sector, we are joined by Tim Taylor, Manager at KPMG in their Technology Risk Practice. Megan and Tim are part of the Future Leaders Committee at IPAA.
Your guide through this discussion is career coach, Tim Crowden. Tim reflects on the discussion and provides further guidance to final-year university students and others who are deciding on their career paths. Tim also shares resources and exercises to help make career development decisions.
3 things learnt:
Why be a public servantWhy work in the private sectorRole of a career coach in your professional developmentRelevant Links from the episode:
Megan Aponte-Payne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-aponte-payne-528572163/ Tim Taylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-taylor-a4a116157/ Tim Crowden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingandleadership2600/ Future Leaders Program: https://www.act.ipaa.org.au/future-leaders-programHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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