‘You’re never too old to learn’ is the motto that Parramatta local, Lisa Xenophondos lives by after she switched her career as a beautician to pursue employment opportunities in the business administration sector.

The 40-year-old has worked in the beauty industry for 21 years, before deciding she wanted to learn practical business and computing skills at TAFE NSW to ensure she can adapt to the evolving technological workforce, which is now in full swing as the COVID-19 crisis continues to change the way businesses operate online.

With the business administration sector expected to see an 8.4 percent growth in administrative support service careers over the next few years,1 Lisa said her career change has never come at a better time.

“I thought I was too old for a career change, but my TAFE NSW Granville teachers have been very encourging and hands-on throughout the whole learning experience,” Lisa said.

“Before I started studying at TAFE NSW, I would have looked at a great job advertisement and not bothered applying because I was missing many of the technological skills employers were looking for,

“Since completing the Certificate III in Business Administration I not only have the practical skills, but the confidence in knowing my skills are current and sought after in the workforce.”

Lisa also supports her nephews and sister who have significant vision impairment and has used her skills to help start up a not-for-profit origanisation called SightFighter.

The charity has since raised thousands of dollars to support research efforts and families who live with the rare eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa.

“I’ve been able practically apply essential skills I learnt in my course like using computer programs and drafting business documents in the real world,” Lisa said.

TAFE NSW Business Services Team Leader Karen Robertson said Lisa’s broadened computing skillset made her an attractive pick among employers, especially now the nation is seeing a shift to online ways of working.

“Lisa is a great example of how TAFE NSW is equipping students with the skills industries are looking for.

“Whether you’re a career starter or career changer, TAFE NSW is delivering practical skills to make sure our students are employable, and keeping up with the needs of the industry.”

“What’s great is that TAFE NSW delivers the course online through TAFE Digital so students can skill up anywhere.”

To find out more about studying business administration at the TAFE NSW , visit www.tafensw.edu.au, or call 131 601.