12
Apr
2011

HE’S A RICH MAN

If you are a parent, an employer or even a young person; you quickly become accustomed to the challenges presented by the professional world. Most young people these days find it difficult to stay and grow within the one company.

Most employers find it hard to get the right talent. And most parents find it difficult to mentor their kids. John Hopkins has done it all. Rolled into one, as an employer, an employee and a mentor – his leadership, commitment to community and passion for his profession stand as a testament to others.

John’s charisma has charmed many employers over the years to giving MEGT’s apprentices and trainees a go in life. His success has seen what he calls a ‘recycling process’; where apprentices or trainees whom were once employed by MEGT, have themselves become business owners, and now are utilising MEGT for their own employment of apprentices and trainees.

‘You need to make an effort to really know your host employers’, John emphasises. ‘If the employer is meticulous, then the candidate should be a “nerdier” kid who pays attention to detail, this way we create the right match from the start’.

John says it is more than just the ‘special people that make up [the team at] MEGT’, that has fuelled his love for the job over the years. It is that moment ‘when you ring the young person to offer them that job, and you hear the sound of joy in their voice as they accept.’ Further than that, he says ‘because it brings joy to the whole family in the knowledge that their child has been given an opportunity in life.’

His career has never been about money, John says. He would have gone back to the tools if that had been the case. However, there is no doubt that John is a rich man.

From the MEGT family, clients, apprentices and trainees:
“Thank you John for the support, life lessons, attention to detail, and for simply caring for the future generation of Australia’s workforce. We wish you well.”

Interview with John Hopkins

Interview – Maria Jardon 8 April 2011