ClassNotes Profiles
Gail O'halloran
I have had a busy life since completing my university studies. I first completed a Bachelor of Teaching in Adult Ed and then spent a couple of years in Canberra with the Department of Defence (civilian of course) in the Training & Development Branch. It was a well-spent time period as Defence was leading the way with competency based training & assessment so I was in on the ground floor learning to identify competencies, etc, etc. That first degree assisted me to gain a promotion back to Darwin as Defence's Training Manager. I went on to complete a Bachelor of Education at NTU as a prelude to undertaking the Master of Education program with a view to eventually completing a PhD.
I left the public sector after 19 years and have been working with private Registered Training Organisations since. My current position is with Dovaston Training and Assessment Centre as Manager - Training & Operations. The B.Teach has been an incredibly useful degree to have. I believe I have used every part of my learning in the jobs I have held since and have recommended it to many people in the adult education field.
Unfortunately, the loss of a love one, cut the dream of further study short and everything was put on hold. However, here we are 5 years later and I hope to complete my Doctor of Theology at the end of this year. I am in the middle of the thesis!
My youngest daughter, Sharon McGregor, was this year's winner of the CDU University Medal. Needless to say I am thrilled with her success and also that we are both graduates of this university. I have always been a supporter of the Territory's university and have always received excellent teaching and assistance in my time as a student. I know Sharon feels the same way.
So here I am, grandmother of 6 and still studying. My job is busy, interesting and varied. I have much contact with our students, both private and public sectors, do a lot of my favourite work - developing training resources - and I have plenty of opportunity to keep abreast of current trends and changes in this industry.
