Blog: Liz Robertson, Training Co-Ordinator

Our Training Co-Ordinator, Liz, tells us about today’s world of employment and why there has never been a better time to study on your doorstep.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your career progression?

I’m Liz Robertson and I’m a Training Co-Ordinator within the Marketing and Business Development Department at Moray College UHI. I organise and run training courses to help people get into employment. I have a good knowledge of the labour market and have built good relationships with employers and different partners. The courses I run are not only tailored to fit the needs and demands of employers, but also to fill those needs with competitive and eager candidates.

I have always been a people person interested in helping others. Growing up I wanted to be a hairdresser but after doing business admin at school I realised I enjoyed this type of work and was lucky enough to be offered an administrative opportunity with a training provider where I offered to help out with training courses when required on a voluntary basis. This allowed me to be in a position to apply for my current role as a Training Co-Ordinator and 25 years later I am still enjoying what I do!

What does a typical day in your role look like?

My work can be so diverse, I am involved in working with individuals/groups, course areas, employers and partners. I see individuals through a journey to obtain employment and breaking down barriers that they may have come up against in the past and ensure they all have the employability skills required to meet today’s employment market. To work in employability, you need to be a good communicator, be empathetic and able to solve problems quickly.

What do individuals go on to do after one of your training courses?

Many of the participants that attend employability courses at Moray College UHI go on to study full time. For many it’s the first time they have entered an educational establishment after having a less favourable experience of education. Having enjoyed their time on the course they realise it’s a different experience at college, many say they love the atmosphere and friendliness of the college and they are treated as an equal so feel confident in furthering their education. Alternatively, participants are prepared with the skills and techniques to enter the world of work.

What challenges does the employability industry face?

Trying to match people to the correct type of work whilst still meeting the local labour market needs can be challenging at times. We are lucky to have local employers who offer work experience to our students and due to the success of this employers are able to find work ready and qualified individuals to be their future employees.

What is the best part of your job?

It’s so rewarding supporting and enabling individuals to achieve their goals. Sometimes someone just needs that wee bit of confidence and a helping hand to achieve success, whether that be helping them change career paths and start their journey by applying for a full-time course at college, or giving them the tools to confidently apply for a job.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I became a granny for the first time last year so love to spend time spoiling him. I am also lucky to live in a beautiful village by the sea, so it is great to go walking along the coast, especially in the summer.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I feel I am a very open person and I’m sure there would be nothing that surprises anyone but most folk wouldn’t know that I ate about 20 sherbet fountains daily when I was pregnant, no wonder my son was born with spikey hair!!

What is your favourite food or meal?

My first choice would always be Italian food but I must admit I do love an Indian Curry.

If you were a superhero, what type of powers would you have?

I would like to have powers that by waving a wand stops all wrinkles and grey hair!!

What is your favourite song?

I have loads of favourite songs but the most recent one I love is Beautiful Boy by John Lennon. It’s the song I always play to my grandson.

What is the best advice you ever received and who was it from?

You appreciate things more when you have worked for it… From my Mum.

What advice do you have for any students who may be struggling during this time?

Everything is achievable, you may not get there right away but with persistence and planning you will be successful. Don’t feel embarrassed asking for help.

If you are not sure about where your future path is going or you want to retrain but have other commitments to consider, then our range of HNC courses and online courses allows you to gain a recognised qualification within as little as a year, allowing you to plan your learning around your life and work commitments.

You can also find out more about how we help unemployed people to return to the world of work through the employability fund and work preparation courses.