How 60 year-old Gavin Cluss turned a hernia setback into a digital comeback
When 60-year-old Gavin Cluss was off work with a hernia, he decided his working life needed to change.
“In my 20s and 30s I had some great jobs in finance,” said Gavin. “But then things went a little bit off track, and I ended up doing physically demanding jobs.”
Gavin Cluss on LinkedIn
As he recovered from his hernia, Gavin felt worn out, and he knew he needed a new direction.
“I wanted to go back to the kind of work I used to do earlier in my life,” he said. “I knew I was smart enough to do more computer-based work, but I just needed help to make the transition.”
That’s when he turned to North Metropolitan TAFE in Perth, after hearing about government-supported vocational education opportunities.
Learning digital skills
Gavin initially undertook a Certificate III in Business (Administration) and is now pursuing a Certificate IV in Business (Administration) These courses are designed to provide practical, workplace-relevant skills, ensuring students like Gavin are prepared to meet modern job market demands.
“I struggled at first,” said Gavin. “I was going from physical work to learning digital skills. However, I was not on my own, as others were experiencing similar challenges.”
Gavin credits the supportive environment at North Metropolitan TAFE for helping him adapt.
“My lecturers always take the time to understand how to help me. The environment is really supportive and encouraging.”
He particularly credits Robyn O’Neill, A/Director of Business & Entrepreneurship at North Metropolitan TAFE, for boosting his confidence. “Robyn helped me overcome my fear of unfamiliar computer applications. Now, I can pick up new applications pretty quickly,” he said.
Age is never an issue
Gavin also appreciates the diversity of students at TAFE. “There are people from all walks of life and ages. Even though I’m the oldest in the class, it’s never an issue. We all support each other.”
Once he completes his current course, Gavin plans to pursue a part-time or full-time customer services role, ideally within the financial services sector.
“Employers in industries like financial services stand to gain from workers like me - people who bring years of lived experience combined with new digital skills,” he added.
And Gavin isn’t stopping there. “No matter what happens, I’ll keep studying. I’m already planning to take more short courses, like database management, to expand my skill set.”