Maree has made helping students succeed her business for almost 33 years

By Greg Chapman

After 33 years, CQUniversity Business teacher Maree Brown will farewell an exemplary career helping Gladstone residents discover the confidence inside themselves.

As one of CQU TAFE’s longest-serving vocational teachers, Maree has taught hundreds of students and is proud of the role she played in their lives.

“Retirement feels a little bittersweet. I'm excited about having more time for family, travel and new adventures, but it's difficult to say goodbye to a career that has been such a significant part of my life,” she said. 

“it’s been an incredibly rewarding journey. For most of the time, I’ve taught in Business Studies, drawing on my industry experience to help students develop practical skills they can apply in their careers and everyday lives.

“Teaching isn't just a job—it's about the relationships you build and the difference you can make in people's lives. I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunities and experiences I've had along the way.” 

She said her passion for helping students began with her early career in industry – before she turned to teaching. 

“When I worked in industry, I found that some of the most rewarding moments came from mentoring colleagues, sharing knowledge, and watching others gain confidence in their abilities,” she said.

“That experience made me realise that teaching was where I could make the greatest difference. It gave me the opportunity to combine my background in business and information technology with a genuine desire to help people discover their potential and achieve their goals. 

“From the very beginning, it was never just about teaching technical skills—it was about encouraging students to believe in themselves and giving them the confidence to pursue opportunities they may never have thought possible.” 

Maree said it’s been a privilege to teach students from such diverse backgrounds, bringing their own unique experiences, ambitions and perspectives.

“Looking back, I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent my career in a profession where every year has brought new opportunities to learn, grow, and make a positive difference in the lives of others,” she said.

“One of the most rewarding moments as a teacher is when a student suddenly realises they can do something they previously thought was beyond them. 

“I remember working with a student who lacked confidence and doubted their ability to complete their studies. With encouragement and support, they not only completed their qualification but went on to achieve far more than they initially thought possible. Seeing that change in confidence was incredibly rewarding and reinforced why I became a teacher. 

“It’s a real honour watching students grow beyond the classroom and achieve things they once thought were out of reach. I’ve been fortunate to see many former students build successful careers, step into leadership roles, start their own businesses, and create lives they’re proud of. Seeing their journeys unfold is incredibly rewarding. 

“Knowing that I may have played a small part in helping them believe in themselves, discover their potential, or develop the confidence and resilience to pursue their goals is something I never take for granted. Those moments remind me why I chose to teach in the first place. Education is about so much more than passing on knowledge—it’s about inspiring people to see what’s possible for themselves, and there’s no greater reward than seeing them go on to achieve it.” 

Maree said that passion for supporting students on their individual journeys helped her adapt to changes in education.

“Education has changed dramatically over the course of my career, and it’s been an honour to evolve alongside it. One of the biggest transformations has been the shift from traditional classroom teaching to online and blended learning. Technology has opened incredible opportunities to make education more accessible and flexible, but it has also challenged us as educators to continually adapt, learn new skills, and find innovative ways to keep students engaged,” she said. 

“Looking back, I see change not as an obstacle but as an opportunity to grow. It has kept teaching exciting, challenged me to become a better educator, and reinforced the importance of being adaptable, compassionate, and committed to helping every student reach their potential.”

Maree encouraged the VET teachers of the future to never lose sight of their purpose. 

“Never underestimate the importance of building relationships with your students. People learn best when they feel respected, supported and encouraged. Be adaptable, continue learning yourself, and remember that every student brings a unique story and set of experiences into the classroom,” she said.

“Sometimes the most important lesson you teach isn't in the curriculum—it's helping someone believe in themselves.”

CQU thanks Maree for her many years of dedication. We wish you all the best in your retirement.