About WPC Group
WPC Group is one of the largest employers of apprentices and trainees in the country, employing ambitious Australians through our national network. Together with our employer partners, we’ve supported more than 20,000 people as they build their skills and bridge the gap towards a meaningful career.
A community based enterprise founded in Melbourne’s western suburbs, WPC Group is Australia’s leading Group Training Organisation and a two time Australian Training Awards winner, recognised for cutting-edge mentored apprenticeship programs developed in partnership with Esso Australia (2021) and Nissan Australia (2016).
With over four decades of experience in group training and a national footprint, WPC Group has a proven ability to enable enterprises large and small to find enduring solutions to their skills and workforce development needs, regardless of how complex and challenging they may appear.
WPC Group has extensive experience designing and delivering customised training programs for our extensive network of industry partners, and the Group’s approach to screening and selecting quality candidates delivers apprentice and trainee retention rates significantly above national averages.
We also proudly play a leading role in regularly promoting the social and economic opportunities available through apprenticeship and traineeship pathways through public and media forums.
If you are looking for a new career or a fresh approach to a skills development challenge, talk to us today!
Our team
We know what it’s like to go through an apprenticeship or traineeship program - because many of our team have done it ourselves. From our leadership to our recruitment consultants to our mentors, the WPC Group team brings first-hand knowledge and experience of the process and the opportunities apprenticeships and traineeships can provide. Read a letter from our Chair.
Nicholas Wyman
CEO
Nicholas Wyman is a workforce development and apprenticeship expert, speaker, and author who has fostered a workforce development model that uses mentoring to shape the thinking, attitude, abilities, and skills of people as they make the transition from school to work. Nicholas applies real-world solutions to the challenges companies face in finding skilled employees.
A Winston-Churchill Memorial Fellow, Nicholas has completed in-depth research into school-to-work transitions and skilled careers. Nicholas wrote the international award-winning book, Job U, regularly writes and comments on skills and workforce development issues, and is a member of the Advisory Board of the American Institute of Innovative Apprenticeship.
Kerrie White
State Manager – WA/SA
Kerrie completed a Bachelor of Arts (Recreation Management) and then continued on to a Bachelor of Business whilst continuing to work in the recreation field. After a sea change, Kerrie discovered an interest in the area of youth employment and training and has had over 25 years experience in roles with a focus on apprenticeships and traineeships in both the Commonwealth and State Government. When she is not working Kerrie is involved in coaching and managing roles in junior sport and to relax, enjoys socialising with friends and family.
Monica Gambiza
National Administration & Compliance Manager
Monica's extensive background in project management, particularly within the higher education sector, shines. Her expertise spans project planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, business development, public relations, event management, and market research. Monica's proficiency in management is further enhanced by her exceptional communication and relationship-building skills. Holding an MBA from Regenesys Business School, she excels in navigating the complexities of administration and compliance with a strategic approach.
Andrew Sezonov
Group General Manager
Andrew is an education into employment specialist, with over two decades of experience designing and implementing dynamic vocational training and workforce development programs for all ages - youth, young adults and transitioning mature workers. Andrew has been an expert advisor and lead consultant on numerous projects involving Australian corporations, Fortune 500 companies, as well as governments departments and programs throughout Australia and the USA. When he’s not focused on skilling up the next generation, Andrew enjoys time with his family, travelling locally and abroad, and participating in various team sports.
John Lynch
State Manager – NSW/QLD
With over 20 years of experience, John has developed a diverse skill set that includes account management, new business development, human resources, WHS, recruitment, operational team management, mentoring, networking, and marketing. John's strengths lie in his ability to build strong relationships. John has a wealth of experience in the vocational education and training sector, having worked in GTO, RTO, and ASSN. He is highly experienced in the hospitality, business, construction, and automotive industries. John's qualifications include a Diploma in Human Resources Management, a Certificate IV in WHS, a Certificate IV in Business (Frontline Management), and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Stephen Nasr
Executive Assistant
Stephen is a skilled Executive Assistant with a comprehensive background in executive support and a certificate in Music History from Yale University. Stephen is fluent in managing complex schedules, coordinating travel, and streamlining office operations. Stephen brings strongly developed skills in organisational management, communication, and handling confidential information efficiently. At WPC Group, Stephen leverages his experience and a proactive 'Can-Do' attitude to enhance team dynamics and improve business processes, making him a valuable asset to the executive team.
Lucy O’Reilly
General Manager
Lucy’s 18-year career is marked by her commitment to the training and employment sectors, having worked in roles that promote skill development and vocational education, such as at an Apprenticeship Centre, Tafe, and an Apprenticeship Employment Network. She held various management positions at gforce employment + recruitment for a decade, gaining insights into workforce management and safety. At the Apprenticeship Employment Network, she was crucial in managing contracts for projects by Jobs Victoria and Apprenticeships Victoria. A Leaders for Geelong program alumnus with accreditations in Business and Health and Safety, Lucy is also dedicated to diversity and inclusion, making significant contributions to the communities she serves.
Lisa Sim
National Payroll & Billing Manager
Lisa has over 10 experience working in payroll and billing across many business sectors including retail, construction, medical and group training. Having a strong background in business and finance, Lisa brings an in-depth knowledge of efficient systems and processes to WPC Group. Lisa provides clear direction and leadership for her team and monitors the efficient and accurate processing and delivery of employment and pay related administration and services for all apprentices and trainees. Outside of work Lisa enjoys being outdoors, horse-riding and spending time with family and friends.
Janine McPhee
State Manager VIC
With extensive experience across multiple business sectors, Janine has spent the last 30 years, consulting, managing and helping organisations and individuals map pathways to secure and prosperous futures. She has mentored individuals to reach their full potential as well as delivered front line programs through non-profit work helping young people get started in the workforce. Coming from a well established career, Janine is excited to be actively supporting mentors on a national basis, connecting with our valued employer partners and guiding apprentices and trainees on their journey.
Mentors and Industry Engagement
Charlene Vaughan
Industry Development Consultant
Charlene Vaughan is an advocate for reshaping the way we perceive VET (Vocational Education and Training). Her rich background includes a significant tenure at Apprenticeship Support Australia, where she celebrated milestones as a Program Manager for Skillsroad and Skilled To Build. Charlene's commitment extends beyond her job title, evident in her passionate involvement in celebrating apprentices and trainees and fostering their career paths as well as her passions for developing young women into trades. Always keen to collaborate, Charlene is dedicated to connecting the youth with the right career journeys.
Emily Dunne
Apprentice and Trainee Manager
Commencing her business career as a trainee within the WPC Group team, Emily spent several years focusing on recruitment before transitioning into a mentoring role. With her first-hand experience, Emily is a proud advocate for the sustainable and rewarding career outcomes the vocational sector can offer people across sunny Queensland. Her mentoring philosophy focuses on providing tailored support and accessible resources to best equip young people with the tools they need to be successful now, and into the future. Outside working hours, Emily enjoys creative arts, getting out to the fresh country air, entertaining friends at home and exploring her local food and wine region all while in the company of her dog, Billie.
Breanna Lear
Apprentice and Trainee Manager
Breanna started her career as a trainee in human resources at a trades company. After finishing her traineeship, she followed her passion for sports while working as a Human Resources Administrator. Since then, Breanna’s held many roles in the group training sector, and also implemented a national IT traineeship program. Breanna has over 10 years of experience mentoring and supporting trainees and apprentices including Aboriginal and Torres strait Islander, disability, diversity and females in non-traditional occupations. Breanna is passionate about supporting young people throughout their traineeship and apprenticeship journeys.
Carol Wicks
Apprentice and Trainee Manager
Carol has worked in the customer service industry through a variety of management roles which have had her work alongside a diverse range of people, cultures and communities. She has completed studies in equal opportunity workplace behaviour, performance appraisal, communication and customer service. As a result, Carol is passionate about helping others apply purpose to their learning to maximize their success. Her most rewarding experiences have come from working with young people within the VET sector to discover their skills and help them lay the foundations for their future career journeys. Outside of work, Carol enjoys spending time with family and friends around the pool, BBQ’s, and walking her little dog Ruby along the beach.
Gemma Ladgrove
Apprentice and Trainee Manager
Gemma has extensive experience working in the automotive industry, after working as a Parts Interpreter for the past 8 years before joining the WPC team. She went on to study a Diploma of Human Resources (HR) after developing an interest in the people and culture aspect of running a business. Gemma believes that placing the right person in the right role is the key to a successful business, and has gained her HR Diploma to help her do just that. Having grown up in Kerang (Victoria), she is passionate about providing people from rural regions with career resources and opportunities. In her spare time, Gemma enjoys photography, watching motorsport, and hanging out with her cat, Nemo.
Robert Aquilina
Apprentice and Trainee Manager
Robbie is an innovative professional with over 20 years of experience in various industries, including maritime, mining, and construction, both in Australia and internationally. His roles have spanned leadership, sales, recruitment, and mentorship, with a focus on apprenticeships and traineeships. Committed to guiding individuals and businesses towards success, Robbie excels in creating supportive environments for career growth. Outside work, he enjoys ice baths, hiking, spending quality time with his family, and actively participating in community events. His well-rounded expertise, dedication to development, and community involvement make him a valuable and versatile asset in any professional setting.
Paul Farries
Apprentice and Trainee Manager
A keen advocate for a better skilled Australia, Paul has a passion for working with business and industry to ensure effective, innovative recruitment, training and assessment programs and strategies. A huge fan of action and experiential learning, behavioural change programs and use of competency frameworks to support workforce development and retention, Paul has extensive experience in the scoping, creation, roll out, and success of multiple employer specific and public learning programs. Past projects include the creation of dynamic leadership programs, employer specific training programs and alignment of training to performance. In Paul’s down time, he enjoys fishing, water skiing and enjoying the great outdoors.
Recruitment
Daniela Durik
National Recruitment Manager
Daniela Durik is a multifaceted professional with over 6 years of dedicated service at WPC Group. She brings a blend of expertise in strategic planning, business development, and customer service to her role as the National Recruitment Manager. Daniela also has a rich background in the training and coaching industry, backed by a Cert IV in Training and Assessment (TAE) from MRWED Training and Assessment. Simultaneously, she celebrates a 5-year tenure with Dirty Little Diggers, where her managerial acumen shines. A people-focused communicator, Daniela holds additional qualifications in Business and Hospitality, proving her wide-ranging competencies.
Rebecca Geary
Western and South Australian Recruitment Consultant
While raising her three children Rebecca had roles in the hospitality and retail industries prior to starting her career in the employment services industry where she completed a dual qualification in Certificate IV in Employment services and Career Development. After 10 years, Rebecca moved to WPC Group to assist with recruiting the right people for the right career. She is also currently completing her Certificate IV in Business. On the weekends Rebecca enjoys playing pool with family and friends and has a hobby doing first aid for 16 years at various events around Western Australia.
Georgia Brimacombe
Victorian Recruitment Consultant
Georgia commenced her career with Tiger Air as a Flight Attendant upon completing secondary school, though due to the pandemic and planes being grounded reassessed her career options. With extensive customer service experience and a genuine love for meeting and helping people, pursuing a career in recruitment was the natural progression in Georgia’s career. Before joining WPC Group, Georgia was part of a boutique recruitment company specialising in Health Services in which she supported all facets of the recruitment lifecycle, whilst completing a business traineeship. From this experience, her passion to provide others a career start through an apprenticeship or traineeship grew.
Candice Shadford
Recruitment Engagement Officer
While completing high school, Candice commenced a traineeship within the veterinary industry, which jump started her career as a veterinary nurse. Seven years later, upon completion of her university degree and working through the pandemic, Candice decided to pursue a new career which allowed her to work within a role which aligned with her passion for meeting new people. With previous experience in customer service and reception roles, Candice had the opportunity to join WPC Group with the recruitment team. Candice looks forward to helping candidates work towards their career goals and seeing them succeed within their workplace. Outside of work, Candice enjoys taking care of her two horses, playing netball and taking her dog Koby for a walk.
Nicco Leopando
Engagement & Recruitment Consultant
Nicco Leopando is a seasoned professional with a deep-rooted background in ICT and Telecommunications domains. Over the years, he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to foster client relationships and pinpoint strategic revenue opportunities. His comprehensive understanding of the industry, combined with his analytical and interpersonal skills, has allowed him to contribute in the success of high profile Strategic, Enterprise and Government accounts. Now channeling his expertise into apprentice and trainee recruitment at WPC Group, Nicco is poised to make significant contributions to the future of talent engagement and development.