Stephanie Turner is finding meaning while making the most of leadership opportunities at APM
Stephanie Turner joined APM as an Employment Consultant in New South Wales’ Illawarra region in August 2020, having sought out a more fulfilling career following the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I was aware of APM’s work in the disability employment sector and was interested in what APM could offer in terms of a career that gave me the opportunity to give back to the community that I was a part of.”
Stephanie found that APM offered comprehensive resources and training to support her in her new role and was able to hit the ground running.
“Alongside a supportive leader and team, I was provided with everything I needed to learn the job of an employment consultant quickly and effectively. This made my transition into the industry enjoyable and satisfying.”
When career opportunity knocks
One year into her role, Stephanie saw an opportunity to become a Senior Employment Consultant in a nearby office to cover maternity leave. Feeling confident to take on more tasks and responsibilities, Stephanie approached her leaders who fully supported her in exploring the next stage of her career.
Stephanie was successful in securing the role and managed a small team in APM’s Dapto office, plus a small outreach site close by.
“Stepping into this role I knew I’d have a lot to learn, but that’s why I took on the challenge - to improve my own career, and in turn be able to provide even greater support to the participants who come to us for support and improve their own lives.”
Opportunity sometimes does knock twice!
Following the promotion of senior leaders within APM, Stephanie was offered an Acting Business Manager role, which soon became permanent, looking after team of eight employment consultants across four offices in the Illawarra.
“I was thrilled that my leaders placed this trust in me after a relatively short time with the company. It’s a big place, but if you’re willing to learn and show initiative, there are so many opportunities to be embraced.
I can see a future with APM, the level of support from the leadership team is tremendous, which I’m extremely grateful for.”
Building a fulfilling career
At APM, we know that people can live better lives when they have meaningful work. We have dedicated teams of employment consultants right across the country who make it their mission to enable better lives, and in doing so find meaning in their own work.
“Coming to work each day can be so rewarding – we help people overcome their barriers to employment, we can change their lives, and it’s very meaningful to be able to help – especially when we hear stories of people being able to buy Christmas presents for their children for the first time in years.
Of course, as in every line of work, there are challenges. But we need to see these as learning opportunities. This work has opened my eyes to some of the broader issues people can face and has changed my outlook on life.
I go home with a smile on my face, making a positive difference to someone’s future is simply the best feeling.”
If you would like to help APM open doors to employment, explore the open roles in our Employment Services team today.
