A few weeks changed the course of Xavier Kerrin’s career.
Xavier was studying electrical engineering at Swinburne University when he decided to apply for Goulburn-Murray Water’s Undergraduate Placement Program.
He applied for work placement opportunities in both G-MW engineering and IT teams and was accepted for the latter.
“It was a great experience,” Xavier said.
“I had been leaning towards a career as an engineer beforehand, but the placement gave me a taste of what working in IT would be like, and I really enjoyed it.”
Xavier’s dedication during his work placement in 2019 paid off, with G-MW offering him a 12-month contract in their IT Team.
He would be offered another role before his contract expired and remain with G-MW as one of the water corporation’s service desk operators.
“I’m very grateful things worked out the way they did,” he said.
“If I hadn’t applied for the work placement, it could have been completely different.”
G-MW is reviving its Undergraduate Placement Program, offering local university students an opportunity similar to Xavier’s career-changing experience.
The program will take place during the break between the end of the second semester in 2024 and the beginning of the first semester in 2025.
G-MW manager of HR, business and partnering Sophie Riddell said the program benefited all involved.
“As one of the major employers in northern Victoria, we’re eager to help local students advance their careers and get hands-on experience,” she said.
“The Undergraduate Placement Program is a great way for us to do this and is fantastic for helping students develop new skills while making valuable industry connections.”
G-MW has opportunities across various areas, including engineering, water resources, business management and human resources.
Applications close on Sunday, October 27.
For more information, visit g-mwater.com.au/about/careers/undergraduate-placement-program