Congratulations to our Employment Services customer Luke, who recently graduated from his traineeship within the WA public sector.

Luke has Asperger’s, but that hasn’t stopped him working hard over the past year as a Human Resources Service Desk Officer.

Ability Centre began working with Luke Van Veen in 2018 to support him in his career goal of securing a long term position. In 2019, the team successfully assisted him to gain a government services traineeship at the WA Government’s Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.

Luke’s traineeship was within the Human Resources team at the Department, as Human Resources Service Desk Officer. Over the past 12 months, Luke has had many achievements such as developing online training courses for the ticket navigation system and knowledge articles for HR resources and provide daily systems’ support and guidance to the department staff.

For someone with Asperger’s, Luke is extremely proud of what he has accomplished within his traineeship. As Luke says, ‘Nothing is impossible when you put your mind to it.’

Luke’s Team Leader Alecia Brooks, is very proud of Luke, he’s really been able to flourish in his role in the team. She puts this down to the Department taking a thoughtful and innovative approach to team structure and allowing people with disability to showcase their strengths. ‘It’s fantastic to see Luke graduate from his traineeship today, alongside his colleagues.’

Ability Centre’s Employment Services Manager, Florinda Rodi agreed with Alecia, “We’re really proud of Luke graduating today and what he’s been able to achieve this year. It really highlights how a positive workplace that promotes inclusion and diversity can support people living with disability like Luke achieve their goals.’