Past
We first met Bridie Searle in 2023 when she was named Australian Trainee of the Year at the Australian Training Awards.
Embracing the hands-on approach to learning, Bridie recognised that a VET pathway was the right fit for her, leading her to enrol in a Certificate IV in Project Management Practice after finishing high school.
Under the guidance and support of expert trainers and colleagues, Bridie excelled in her traineeship. She was able to fast track her qualification and became a sought-after Project Superintendent at her company, managing million-dollar maritime projects.
Present
Since winning Australian Trainee of the Year, Bridie gained the confidence to turn her dream into a reality by starting her own business, ReadySkills. As a provider, ReadySkills offers personalised coaching and workshops to support and empower Australians to gain the skills they need to learn, work and live independently. ReadySkills works across schools, community organisations, employment services, and youth justice spaces.
“I started ReadySkills in 2024, and it's been the most rewarding ride. I’ve always been passionate about education, but I wanted to create something different: something accessible, real, engaging, and delivered with heart.” Bridie said.
Striving to practice what she preaches, Bridie is continuously learning. As a natural next step, Bridie is currently undertaking a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment to ensure she’s delivering quality, relevant and engaging workshops to her clients.
Beyond the classroom, Bridie continues to learn from mentors, other small business owners, her workshop participants, and the incredible communities she’s involved in, saying “Every experience is a lesson”.
Australian VET Alumni
Since joining the Australian VET Alumni, Bridie embraces every new opportunity. She’s been able to connect with others who are passionate about skills, training and lifelong learning.
“Winning the trainee of the year award wasn’t the end — it was the beginning. It gave me the courage to back myself, to start something from scratch, and to believe that my voice — and my skills — mattered.”
“I’ve had the chance to speak at events, mentor others, and advocate for the power of VET nationally – all things I never imagined myself doing before.” Bridie said.
Bridie has been invited to mentor the finalists at the 2025 Australian Training Awards in Darwin.
Becoming a member of the Australian VET Alumni has also provided invaluable support to Bridie for her business, as she’s able to stay in the loop with industry changes and innovations. Bridie also has an expansive supportive network of changemakers who she can learn from. “Being recognised as part of the Australian VET Alumni reminded me that you don’t have to follow a traditional path to be successful. Sometimes the scenic route – the one with the stops, the pivots, the unexpected opportunities – leads to the best view.” Bridie said.
For those considering a VET pathway Bridie advocates to just do it, saying “Vocational education and training is one of the most powerful tools we have – whether you’re starting fresh, switching careers, or levelling up in your current one.”
“There’s something really special about learning that’s rooted in the real world. It’s not about ticking boxes – it’s about genuinely building capability and confidence.”
Future
Bridie is focused and excited for the future. She plans to expand her business across the country, empowering people from cities to remote communities to gain the skills they need to follow their own path to success.
Bridie is committed to investing in her personal growth and is planning to pursue further study to build on her skills and leadership.
“I’m focused on staying practical, people-focused, and committed to delivering impact where it’s needed most.” Bridie said.
More information
Interested in exploring a career like Bridie’s? Explore VET courses on the Your Career website: