Brandon finds his first job after high school

Brandon standing next to an APM banner, with his employment consultant Jess, smiling

Since finding work he's passionate about, Brandon has grown remarkably

After graduating high school in 2019, Brandon started his journey with APM for help finding his first job.

Brandon lives with autism and needed to find a supportive workplace to start his professional career. Brandon lives in Salisbury, South Australia - less than an hour north of Adelaide's Central Business District.

Without any previous work experience, this had affected his confidence, and was feeling uncertain about his future.

Like all young adults, he wanted to become more self-sufficient.

All Brandon wanted to pursue was something which used his skills in woodwork after developing a passion in high school. But to get into a professional role, he’d need to build some a solid foundation of some professional skills to get him there.

His Employment Consultant Jess began building his confidence and motivation by conducting multiple mock interviews, encouraging his own job searching and trying to build Brandon’s independence.

Jess just focused on Brandon’s skills based on his subjects at school and used this when marketing him to employers.

“Brandon had started to build some foundational skills through his time at school” she said “It was pretty clear his strength was hands-on work”

With the help of another Employment Coordinator Kara and her employer contact at Lanfranco Furniture, Jess was able to find the perfect first ever job for Brandon building furniture in a junior position in which full training was provided.

Even in the short period of time he’s been working there, Brandon said he couldn’t be happier and that he goes to work each morning with a smile on his face.

His Mum marvels at how his independence has grown and flourished in that time.

“You just want your kids to be happy, and this job has given him an incredible amount more confidence” she said

Just like he dreamed of doing, Brandon utilises his passion of woodwork every day in his job and has already built a couch!

Brandon has said he can’t believe his first job could be his forever dream job – what an excellent achievement for this young man!


Injury, illness or disability and want to work?

You could be eligible for help in finding a suitable job from APM Employment Services.

As Australia’s largest provider of the Disability Employment Services program we help thousands of people with permanent or temporary disabilities, injuries, mental health conditions and other diagnosed barriers which may prevent them finding successful employment.

If you want to find out more, register with us today, or call our team on 1800 276 276 for more information.

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Looking for staff?

We don’t just support job seekers, we also help thousands of employers find reliable staff and access government incentives when hiring new employees.

If you’re an employer, you could access wage subsidies, plus funds for training and workplace modifications when hiring a person with disability for full or part-time work.

Plus, you will be enhancing the diversity of your business while making a real positive difference in a person’s life.

Find out more about this rewarding opportunity for employers by speaking to your nearest APM Employment Services team, or emailing support@apm.net.au.