To promote
personal career development for individuals in the industry, the Gottstein
Trust created a ‘Skill Advancement Award’ in 1998. Since renamed, the Award is
a practical and straight forward monetary grant that can be for applicants at
any level. They need to demonstrate how this support would improve their
professional skills and advance their career prospects.
The Award is
different from a Fellowship as it covers a wider breadth of job categories and types
of experience. In fact – it is open to everyone in the forest and wood products
value chain. To be considered you must demonstrate how your job performance or
future career would benefit from the chance to develop skills through training
or a project you have in mind, or for example attending a seminar or
conference.
These grants
do not usually involve overseas travel. A simple report is all that’s required after
you have completed the agreed activity. This contrasts with a fellowship report
– these are expected to be extensive and able to be applied to the wider
industry.
The round is always publicised in industry media and newsletters as well as LinkedIn.
Applications should only be
submitted online.
2024 timeline for applications
There is a two month period when applications can be accepted. Applications open on Monday 5th August and will close on Friday 4th October 2024.
Late applications will generally NOT be considered, except in exceptional circumstances.
Requirements
Applicants are selected based
on the basis of their motivation and commitment to the forestry and wood
products industry; and the relevance of the activity as a way to develop their
skills and knowledge. No formal education requirements are needed to apply, however
a letter of recommendation from the applicant’s employer is desirable.
Every applications is reviewed by
the Trustees and the shortlisted applicants may then be interviewed. However interviews are not a compulsory part of the selection process for this grant category.
All applicants are advised of
the outcome as soon as the review process is completed. The 2024 round is expected to be finalised in early to mid-November, when successful candidates are notified in writing.
Contact the Gottstein Trust for more information. You can also call 0419-991-424.