Through our partnership with Morwell local police, Ryley was referred into the Ladder program in October last year.  

“Before I started Ladder, I hadn't really worked much and was struggling to find a job. Going back to school wasn't an option and I was hanging around the wrong crowd. I was referred to Ladder by the police and I didn't really have a goal” shares Ryley.

Ryley’s Ladder Development Coaches supported him throughout the program to become job ready.

Ryley reflected on his time in the program and said “Ladder showed me a lot of options and had faith in me which helped me to find the motivation to start looking for a mechanical apprenticeship. They helped me make my resume and taught me how to apply for work.”

Ryley identified that he preferred talking to prospective employers versus submitting paperwork so assisted by his Development Coach, they approached several local mechanics in the area. Ryley’s initiative and drive were key to him being successfully employed by WRW Mechanical Repairs in Morwell and he gained some valuable work experience. Ryley’s initial tasks included cleaning, then he slowly made his way working into services and fixing minor things on the cars.

Ryley’s next goal is to obtain and successfully complete an apprenticeship and hopefully own his own shop one day. He’s grateful for his time at Ladder as this is where he found his motivation to get out and find employment.

WRW Mechanical Repairs owner Warren had the following to say about Ryley.

“Ryley came through the front door asking for a job which is the best way to do it. Ryley is a happy vibrant kid who wants to work and improve his skillset. We are providing Ryley with opportunities to learn some working skills to advance to an apprenticeship which we are currently in the process for Ryley. Ryley is a good kid who wants to work so we are happy to give him a go and offer an apprenticeship. We have had some other kids come into the business that don’t want to work so it has been a breath of fresh air to have Ryley come in, he is a good kid.”

Ryley has really proven himself over the past few months and is excited to commence a mechanical apprenticeship with WRW Mechanical Repairs in the new year.

In a full circle moment for Ryley, he was recently invited to return to the Ladder program office, this time to speak with current program participants. He proudly shared about his journey from attending the Ladder program and how it shaped him to be where he is now.