Rising to the challenge

2026-11-09

For many people, a career change can feel daunting. For Kristen Grasso, it opened the door to an entirely new chapter at The Gordon.

After running her own successful hairdressing business for 17 years, Kristen took a chance on teaching. What began as a casual role has grown into a leadership position as one of The Gordon's two Directors of Education Excellence, where she now helps students gain the skills, confidence and industry connections they need to build rewarding careers.

Can you tell us about your journey and what led you to The Gordon?

My career began as a hairdressing apprentice and over time I became a business owner, running a salon for 17 years. It was a rewarding experience that taught me a lot about people, leadership and the importance of helping others grow.

When I was ready for a new challenge, I came across an opportunity to teach at The Gordon. What started as a casual teaching role soon became a career I was passionate about. I moved into full-time teaching, then leadership roles and today I'm one of two Directors of Education Excellence.

It wasn't a path I planned, but every step provided valuable experiences that helped shape where I am today.

What inspired you to move from industry into education?

I was looking for a new challenge. Teaching gave me the opportunity to share what I'd learned and help others as they started building their own careers.

Having been an apprentice myself, I know how important it is to have people around you who are willing to share their knowledge and encourage you along the way.

What I love most about education is seeing students grow in confidence. Watching someone discover their potential and develop the skills to achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding, and it's what has kept me passionate about education throughout my career at The Gordon.

How has your industry experience shaped the way you lead?

My time in industry taught me the importance of practical skills, strong relationships and staying focused on outcomes. It also showed me how important it is for education to remain connected to the real world of work.

As a leader, I believe in being approachable, listening to different perspectives and working collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes.

Most importantly, I try to keep students at the centre of every decision we make. If we can provide great learning experiences and help students achieve their goals, then we're making a genuine difference to individuals, employers and our wider community.

What are some study areas at The Gordon people may be surprised to learn about?

Trades are a proud part of The Gordon's history, but we deliver training across a wide range of industries, including:

  • Nursing
  • Disability and Community Services
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Business
  • Information Technology
  • Hospitality
  • Hairdressing
  • and many more

One of the things I enjoy most about TAFE is the diversity of our students. We support school leavers, apprentices, career changers and people returning to study after many years away from the classroom.

Every student's journey is unique and that's what makes vocational education so special. There are many pathways into study and employment, and we design our courses to help people achieve their goals at every stage of life.

What has Free TAFE meant for students, industries and the broader community?

Free TAFE has opened doors for many people by making education more accessible. For some, course costs can be a significant barrier, so removing that obstacle can make a real difference when deciding whether to study.

We've seen people gain qualifications, change careers, upskill and move into industries that are crying out for skilled workers.

Beyond employment opportunities, it also gives people confidence and a chance to create a different future for themselves and their families. The impact extends beyond individual students because stronger skills and a more qualified workforce benefit employers, industries and the wider community.

What would you say to someone who sees TAFE as an alternative pathway rather than a first choice?

TAFE is a fantastic first-choice option that provides practical, hands-on training and strong connections to industry.

My own career is a great example. I certainly couldn't have predicted where that pathway would take me.

Vocational education gives people real skills and can open doors to opportunities they may never have imagined. There isn't one definition of success, and there isn't one pathway to reach it.

The Gordon has recently opened new simulated nursing labs. Why are facilities like these so important?

They give students the chance to practise in an environment that feels like the real workplace.

Students can build their clinical skills, work through realistic scenarios and gain confidence before entering healthcare settings. It's a safe space to learn, ask questions and develop the judgement needed for a career in nursing.

These experiences help bridge the gap between theory and practice and ensure students are better prepared for the realities of working in the healthcare sector.


What advice would you give to someone considering their next step?

My advice is simple: stay open to opportunities and don't feel like you need to have everything figured out.

When I started my apprenticeship, I never imagined it would eventually lead me to a leadership role in education.

Careers often take unexpected turns and some of the best opportunities come when you're willing to try something new. Talk to people, explore your options and remember that the skills and experiences you've already gained are valuable.

Most importantly, don't let fear of change hold you back. Taking that first step can feel daunting, but it can also be the start of something wonderful.