Applications open for unique Board program
A unique opportunity is now open for people who want to learn how to be an effective Board Member while contributing to the board of a successful not-for-profit organisation.
Community College Gippsland (CCG), a local education and training provider, is reopening the Cadet Director Observer Program for applications. The innovative program enables two new people to join a 12-month director development series, which provides an introduction to key aspects of the organisation’s board through deep-dive sessions, participation in monthly meetings and invitations to join specialist sub-committees.
Board Chair, Marianne Shearer, said that it was important to build the skills of future leaders in Gippsland.
“Here at CCG, we are all about building skills, knowledge and experience to help people and communities thrive – we wanted that to extend all the way to the Board,” Ms Shearer said. “The cadet program provides a rare opportunity for people to participate in a fully-supported way.”
2021-2022 cadet, Jared Slater, said the program was a professional development opportunity like no other.
“The Cadet program is a unique experience, and one that very few organisations make available,” Mr Slater said. “You get to learn how boards operate from highly diverse, skilled and professional directors, in an organisation that makes a real, tangible difference in people’s lives. That’s quite an amazing opportunity.
“I went in with high hopes, but the experience offered so much more than I thought,” he said. “I found myself learning at every stage of the journey. It really helped me understand the role and responsibilities of a board director, and affirmed how I could use the skills I learnt to contribute in the future.”
For fellow 2021-2022 cadet, Marie Downie, the pull was personal as well as professional.
“The opportunity really stood out to me for two reasons,” Ms Downie explained. “Firstly, the Cadet program gives you the rare opportunity to build practical experience on a Board in a supported way. Secondly, my own career started with training at an RTO just like CCG, and the idea of being able to contribute to an organisation like that really appealed to me.”
Now an experienced professional in her field, Ms Downie was looking for ways to share her skills and knowledge, as well as continue her own learning.
“I was interested in joining a Board but would not have applied for a Director position, because I wasn’t sure that I had enough experience to deliver to their expectations and I wasn’t sure if it was the right fit for me,” Ms Downie said.
For those who are considering applying for the program, both cadets agree that you should not hesitate.
“Do it,” Ms Downie said. “The impact has been huge, personally and professionally. It has been an amazing experience, and I can’t speak highly enough about it.”
“I would absolutely encourage others to take part,” Mr Slater agreed. “Jump in and have a go. You won’t regret it.”
Expressions of interest for the cadet program are open until Monday 5 September 2022. Adults of all ages are welcome. People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and those who have experience with disability are encouraged to apply.