Things are different for Nick since he started his bricklaying apprenticeship four months ago. “Since I have started this job, things have changed for me,” explains Nick. “I go to bed early and I’m in a good routine so that I can work everyday.”

Nick is 23 years old and since finishing school, he has worked in a number of different jobs. “I worked on and off for about four years, before I found a real career and goal for myself,” said Nick.

Nick was referred to WISE’s Disability Employment Network in Richmond last year. He is profoundly deaf and faced some additional challenges in seeking out an apprenticeship or employment.

When asked about some of the challenges and barriers that he has faced, he says, “Some (jobs) are easy and some are hard and it depends on who the people that you are working with as well.”

Nick was interested in jobs in the construction industry and was thrilled when he was offered a work trial with Luke Henderson Bricklaying in Donvale. He has now completed four months of his apprenticeship and “loves” his job. “I didn’t realise how much I would like it until I tried it,” said Nick. “I’m looking forward to being a fully qualified tradesman.”

And the steady income is another bonus for Nick. “I’m saving so that I can get into the right habit, so that when I finish my apprenticeship, I can buy a house,” he explains.