For many, the traditional classroom is a familiar path, but for John Emery, it felt like a mismatch. After struggling to find his rhythm in mainstream education, John embarked on a two-year homeschooling adventure. This unconventional start proved to be a transformative period, ultimately setting him on an extraordinary trajectory that led him to the Australian Trade College North Brisbane (ATCNB), part of the IntoWork Group.
It was there, after his unique educational journey, that he was celebrated with the prestigious 2025 IntoWork Vibrant Futures Award at the graduation ceremony in November.
“I certainly didn’t expect it. It was pretty awesome. It was a bit of a shock,” John said. The night was a whirlwind for the 19-year-old apprentice electrician, who also proudly accepted the Business Commendation Award alongside his graduation certificate.
John’s path to ATCNB began in Year 10, following his two years of homeschooling. Having experienced a different learning environment, he was ready for something new. He joined the College’s Cadet Program, a hands-on exploration of three trades over six weeks. It was there that he found his calling, “Once I tried electrical, I knew it was the right fit,” he said.
“It was just so interesting and the amount of different work it involves and where it can take you, it’s fascinating. There are so many different elements and some of the work we do is just awesome.”
ATCNB proved to be the perfect environment for John, offering a unique blend of vocational trade training and senior high school education. The college’s focus on practical skills and real-world pathways resonated deeply with him, a stark contrast to his earlier school experiences. He thrived in a setting where he felt respected and genuinely supported, building relationships with teachers that felt more like mentorships.
“They were teachers, but they didn’t feel like teachers,” he said. “You were able to talk to them about work and goals and stuff like that, and then they were able to properly assist you. They’re not treating you like a student necessarily. They’re just treating you like a young adult.”
Having graduated earlier this year, John has already launched into a full-time apprenticeship as an electrician, currently bringing his skills to Aussie World on the Sunshine Coast. He’s relieved, proud, and eager to embrace the “real world” he’s worked so hard to enter.
His message to other young people feeling lost in the traditional school system and considering vocational training, his message is clear, “Do it. Try it and see what happens. It’s like normal school but different at the same time. It’s pretty cool that you get to go do a trade in school.”