When Zach began looking for work, he already knew where his strengths lay. He loved the gym, had years of hands-on automotive experience, and wanted a job where he could put those skills to good use.
What he needed was the right opportunity — and the routine and confidence to make it last.
A setback that became a starting point
After joining WISE’s Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) program in 2023, Zach secured a job through his Job Coach, Brittany. The role was physically demanding, but at the time, his fitness and daily routine weren’t where they needed to be. While the role didn’t work out, it became the motivation Zach needed to build the routine and resilience that would help him succeed in his next opportunity.
Rather than letting the setback define him, Zach used it as motivation.
“I just thought, I’m not going to be able to keep a job if I keep being so slow,” Zach says. “I’ve got to get the right routine, get in better shape, train harder in order to get the right job. I have to be prepared for all that.”
Brittany saw a shift in Zach’s mindset almost immediately. Together with his parents, support worker and the WISE team, she encouraged him as he began rebuilding the foundations that would help him succeed.
Building a routine that worked
Working closely with his support worker and gym trainer, Zach committed to a consistent routine. Early mornings, regular training and healthier habits gradually became part of everyday life.
“He pushes me in the gym. When I tell him I can’t do any more, he says, ‘If you stop, we go another 10 sets.’ But I’d rather have that push, because if you’re tired at work, the boss isn’t going to say you can have a break whenever you feel like it. You’ve got stuff to do.”
Over time, Zach became fitter, stronger and more confident.
Around this time, he also tackled the steep gravel hill near the 1000 Steps with his support worker. It wasn’t easy.
Looking back, Zach sees that climb as more than a fitness challenge. It became a reminder that progress doesn’t always happen quickly, but every step forward counts.
“I just kept going and going,” he recalls. “Eventually I made it all the way over the top… It’s kind of like a representation of what I’ve been through with finding work. Climbing the hill, and now I’m at the top.”
His family noticed the difference too. With each visit home, they saw someone who was more focused, motivated and confident than before.
Inspired by those who came before him
Zach says much of his determination comes from the example set by his late grandfather, a former Navy serviceman who overcame significant challenges through hard work and perseverance.
Although his grandfather has since passed away, Zach still carries those lessons with him every day.
“He always told me, you’ve got to earn something if you want it. You’ve got to work hard at it. And that’s an important life lesson.”
“He’s always watching me. I’m working hard, training hard, to make him proud.”
Finding the right fit
As Zach’s confidence grew and his routine became second nature, Brittany continued working with him to find a role that better matched both his skills and interests.
A trial at Headlights Plus, a family-owned headlight restoration business, quickly felt like the right fit.
“I went down there for the trial, they showed me what to do, and I was just naturally skilled at it. So, I spoke with the boss and his son and they said, ‘You can start Monday.'”
Drawing on his automotive experience, Zach settled into the role quickly. More than three months on, he’s become a valued member of the team.
Reflecting on being offered the role at Headlights Plus, Zach says it quickly turned into a family celebration.
“It started with the job trial at this new job… and it ended with a big celebration at home because I could tell Mum and Dad that they gave me the job.”
A success shared by many
For Brittany, watching Zach’s commitment pay off was incredibly rewarding.
“There was almost like a flick switch,” she says. “He was coming in weekly, bringing me a long list of employers he’d gone to himself. He was really going that extra mile.”
When Zach got the job, the celebration extended well beyond his family. Messages flowed between Brittany, Zach’s parents, his support worker and his support coordinator — everyone who had supported him along the way.
“When Zach got the job, it was like an aha moment. It was like, yes — this one means a lot.”
For Zach, work has become something he genuinely enjoys.
“It’s not just, oh, I’ve got to go to work. It’s more like, yes!, work.”
Looking ahead
Although he’s now employed, Zach continues to set new goals. He’s working towards maintaining the routine he’s built and continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
His advice for others is simple.
“Go with what your heart tells you. Think of a job you’re good at or would like to give a go, and don’t be scared to ask. Just get your foot in the door. The worst they can say is no.”
At WISE, we’re proud to have been part of Zach’s journey, supporting him as he built the confidence, routine and skills to achieve his goals. If you or someone you care for is ready to take that first step, reach out to the WISE team today.
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