Sharlene Novak is a Work Integrated Learning Coordinator for the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) Program at Melbourne Polytechnic. Sharlene joined Melbourne Polytechnic in 2020. Prior to her appointment to Melbourne Polytechnic, Sharlene has been working in similar roles across the Education/VET sectors since 2009 and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Latrobe University.
Sharlene is passionate about supporting students to achieve their career aspirations and goals by assisting students with industry opportunities, career planning and pathways to become confident and professional graduate engineers.
As the WIL Coordinator for the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) program, Sharlene’s role includes:
- The development of the WIL program for the Bachelor Degree.
- Coordinating WIL Industry Placements for undergraduate students in their second and fourth year.
- Collaborating and securing valuable industry partnerships across the engineering and construction sectors.
- Introducing students to industry and real work environment experiences and opportunities that align with their current studies and professional career goals.
- Assisting students in developing and enhancing their practical skills and knowledge through Work Integrated Learning opportunities and industry events.
- Assisting undergraduate students to obtain industry requirements.
- Supporting students and alumni in seeking and securing graduate and employment opportunities.
- Assisting students with career preparation and planning to become job ready.
- Establishing and administering an online platform via LinkedIn for the purpose of sharing internship, employment and professional development opportunities with students and graduates and to facilitate opportunities for students and the alumni community to stay connected.
- Supporting student enrolments and orientation.
Awards and Achievements
Winner - Excellence in Strengthening the Delivery of Applied and Future-focused Learning 2023, Melbourne Polytechnic.