Devon Leslie, who recently completed his Certificate IV in Aquaculture with Seafood and Maritime Training, has started the year with an exciting career move, taking on the role of Manager at Smithton Shellfish in late January.

We spoke with Devon about how undertaking the Certificate IV helped prepare him for the transition into management. He explained that the qualification was both valuable and practical, giving him the skills needed to step confidently into the role.

Devon said the course was “really good and very helpful,” particularly in areas such as business management, staff training requirements, and the delegation of tasks. He found that the Certificate IV helped him approach his work in a more professional and organised manner.

At the time of studying, Devon was working as Assistant Manager, where he was responsible for stock management and logistics. Completing the qualification strengthened the professional side of his role and gave him a better understanding of how to manage both people and production.

One of the highlights of the course for Devon was the Leadership and Teamwork workshop, along with the business planning activities. He enjoyed learning how factors such as hectares under production, stock levels, costs and profits all work together to influence the success of a business.

Devon said the qualification was “definitely worth doing” and well worth the time he invested. He also gained a strong understanding of WHS requirements, the importance of staff inductions and toolbox meetings, and why accurate record keeping is essential. The course also reinforced the importance of biosecurity, including the laws, permits, restrictions and protocols that help keep the aquaculture industry safe and sustainable.

Although stepping into the manager’s role was daunting at first, particularly when dealing with staffing and operational pressures, Devon is enjoying the challenge. He is looking forward to keeping production running smoothly, maintaining the farm to a high standard, and helping the business remain profitable, as he puts it, “keeping everything rolling in an organised fashion.”