Ask and you shall receive

Asking just one question at a seminar last year was the catalyst for a whole new career path for William Churchill.

The 22-year-old was a hotel porter and student at The University of Queensland’s School of Tourism when he spoke to Adjunct Professor Richard Mulcahy at the school’s Meet the Industry Leaders Event (MILE).

It led to an internship with industry peak body AUSVEG, where Mr Mulcahy was the chief executive officer.

After helping to organize the AUSVEG national convention on the Gold Coast, Mr Churchill was promoted to marketing manager and assigned to oversee convention planning and execution.

He has been building strategic partnerships with more than 20 organisations while working full-time in Melbourne, resulting in his studies being put on hold.

“I envisioned I would end up in hotel management, but I was willing to try new things. I had not even been to Melbourne when I took this work on,” he said.

“I took the plunge. I would encourage other people to explore and try new things. Step out of your comfort zone.

“When you are young, you have the flexibility to go wherever you feel like. You don’t own a house or have a family. In 10 years I may have a family or a house to keep me in place.”

Mr Churchill said he would definitely complete his studies, but was enjoying his new role and appreciated the importance of experience in the workforce.

Among the highlight of his work so far was applying what he had learned at UQ to staging an convention for 650 delegates at one of Australia’s largest hotels.

While Mr Churchill credited hard work during his internship with the promotions to his new role, the networking during MILE was clearly the first step on his journey.

“Networking is extremely important. Business opportunities come and go. The way to succeed is to keep your ear to the ground," he said.

“I went to MILE and met people. It turned out quite well. I am enjoying what I do now at AUSVEG.”

The school will hold MILE at the Hilton Hotel on September 1, with Riverlife managing director John Sharpe as keynote speaker. Visit www.tourism.uq.edu.au.

Media: William Churchill (0411 166 748) or Erik de Wit (0417 088 772)