Business training leads Shelly back to CQUniversity as project officer
By Greg Chapman
Shelly Williams has come full circle since completing her business qualifications at CQUniversity TAFE, flourishing in a project officer role in CQU’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) directorate.
In addition to working with CQU and holding Certificate III in Business and Diploma of Business qualifications from the University, Shelly is about to add a Bachelor of Business to an already impressive repertoire.
Yet, she wasn’t initially eager to undertake tertiary study when she finished high school.
“Unlike my school mates, I wasn’t confident jumping straight into an undergraduate degree. I’d experienced learning challenges throughout my schooling, which created anxiety around the idea of university,” she said.
“Early in my career, I completed a Certificate III in Business as a trainee with Livingstone Shire Council, and that was a turning point for me. The one-on-one support and the on-campus classes helped me feel more capable, and being able to apply what I was learning in real time gave me a real sense of purpose.”
Shelly excelled in that first qualification, receiving the Shelley Gregory Memorial prize, which in turn made her feel part of the CQU community. She eventually completed the Diploma of Business, which put her in good position to take on the role of Project Officer in the Office of the Deputy Vice President (VET & Business Development).
“While the role itself didn’t directly result from the course, my studies absolutely helped prepare me for it. My role as Project Officer works within as part of the executive support team and involves leading and supporting a range of projects aligned with the University’s VET strategies, managing internal communications, and providing high-level executive support. I also coordinate reporting, events, financial processes, and committee work within the Directorate,” she said.
“The skills I developed through the Diploma of Business such as communication, project coordination, and understanding business operations gave me the foundation I needed to step confidently into this position.”
She said progressing on the pathway into a Bachelor of Business was the next logical step.
“Building on my Diploma and professional experience at CQU, the Bachelor of Business was the next step in furthering my development. As I progressed in my career, I found myself asking why certain things were done the way they were, and I wanted a deeper understanding to support my professional growth,” she said.
“Additionally, throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside many inspiring leaders, both at CQUniversity and in previous roles. Their example has consistently motivated me to pursue further development and strengthen my own leadership capabilities. By that point, I had built the confidence to manage my workload, meet deadlines, and balance study alongside full-time work.”
Now in her final year of study and on track to graduate with distinction, Shelly says her journey has been both rewarding and transformative.
“It has allowed me to deepen my knowledge while contributing more meaningfully to my role, and I’m excited to see how this experience will shape the next chapter of my career,” she added.
“I’d absolutely recommend studying business. A business course can open so many doors, building both confidence and capability. Whether you’re entering the workforce, looking to upskill, or considering further study, it gives you a strong foundation to work from. The structure and support available through CQU TAFE make it a practical and accessible way to grow both personally and professionally,” she said.
Start your business journey like Shelly with a Certificate III in Business or Diploma.
