From the kitchen to the classroom to the IT help desk, Peter’s career path isn’t what you’d call conventional. Now a System Support Officer at STEPS, he’s found a role that keeps him on his toes and a sector that feels like home.
Learn how a chance conversation led Peter to one of the most rewarding moves of his career.
Out of the kitchen and into the classroom
Before joining STEPS, Peter spent three decades as a chef, working across a wide range of kitchens and cuisines.
He craved a new challenge and retrained as a qualified trainer and assessor with the goal of passing his skills on to the next generation of chefs. It was a natural pivot, and one that opened an unexpected door.
A friend flagged a role at STEPS that matched his background. “I decided to check it out, and I instantly knew it was for me,” Peter said.
In May 2021, he joined STEPS Pathways College as a trainer, helping students build practical skills in a supportive environment, and discovered the disability sector.
An evolving career
Peter’s move into the IT space wasn’t planned; instead, it happened organically from his time at STEPS. Two years into his role at the Boarding College, he came across an opportunity to study Information Communication Technology at TAFE while continuing to work as a casual trainer.
STEPS supported him through the transition, accommodating his study schedule along the way. When a relevant position opened at the end of his studies, the move was a natural fit.
Today, Peter works as a System Support Officer, managing the internal IT Help Desk and keeping technical operations running smoothly for staff.
“You never know what’s going to happen. Any phone call can lead you in any direction,” he said. “It keeps you thinking and makes the day very interesting.”
Surfing, golf and ‘Dad Mode’
Outside of work, Peter’s world revolves around his family. When he’s not in what he affectionally calls ‘Dad Mode,’ he enjoys surfing, playing golf, and practising karate.
It’s a full life, and Peter wouldn’t have it any other way. The balance between a stimulating role at STEPS and a rich home life suit him well, and it’s clear that the people around him, both at work and at home, are what matter most to him.
Always learning and growing
Peter’s goals are straightforward: keep upskilling, deepening his IT knowledge, and exploring how administrative skills and practices can complement the technicality of his role.
He’s also passionate about encouraging others to take the leap into new fields, advising people to start online, stay curious, and trust the process.
As for what keeps him committed to STEPS long-term, it comes back to something he felt from day one: “Because of STEPS, I’ve joined the disability sector and found a direction for my career.”
About STEPS Spotlight
STEPS Spotlight is our way of celebrating the incredible people who make up the STEPS team.
Each month, we share the story of a staff member whose passion, dedication and unique journey help shape the heart of our organisation.
Stay tuned for more stories across the STEPS community or, in the meantime, revisit our previous profiles!
