Gavin Ford
Seddon,VIC
Summary
Highly experienced Registered Training Organisation (RTO) owner, WorkSafe–authorised assessor, and compliance specialist with over 13 years of expertise in training, auditing, and regulatory compliance within the high-risk work licensing sector.
Strong track record of successfully managing WorkSafe, ASQA and independent audits, developing training resources, and leading trainer/assessors to deliver consistent, compliant outcomes. Recognised for building strong professional relationships with regulators and industry stakeholders, and for creating tailored compliance solutions that improve safety outcomes across workplaces.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Owner / Director / WorkSafe Authorised Assessor
Trainix
06.2015 - Current
- Established and managed a successful RTO specialising in forklift and order picker licensing (LF & LO).
- Maintained positive compliance outcomes across multiple WorkSafe and ASQA audits, ensuring zero significant non-compliances.
- Managed and supported a team of WorkSafe-authorised assessors, providing compliance guidance and conducting internal monitoring.
- Designed and developed learning resources, PowerPoints, learner guides, and assessment tools aligned with WorkSafe and ASQA standards.
- Managed student results and issued Statement of Attainments in Learning Management System (aXcelerate).
- Created online learning videos and refresher tools to support flexible training delivery and workplace compliance.
- Delivered customised consultancy to company managers and site owners, developing tailored training programs to meet site-specific requirements.
- Built a strong reputation with WorkSafe auditors and staff, maintaining consistently positive audit relationships.
- Mentored new trainer/assessors, arranged professional development and ensured adherence to company values/compliance requirements.
- Managed day-to-day business operations including administration, student management, staff rostering, accounts, sales, website updates, marketing and data entry.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Assisted clients with forklift and order picker technical information, as required.
- Handled problematic customers and maintained excellent customer service.
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
- Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
- Conducted internal investigations into minor compliance issues and developed corrective action plans.
- Supported a positive learning environment with clear communication and empathy for diverse learners.
- Regularly travelled across Victoria to deliver onsite training and assessment, and refresher programs for licensed operators in regional and rural workplaces throughout Australia.
- Conducted post-incident VoC's at multiple Victorian workplaces to ensure competency and assist with incident prevention programs.
Trainer/Assessor/Senior Training Manager
Ausfork
03.2012 - 05.2015
- Delivered training sessions for LF and LO licensing under authorisation of Start Training RTO 22381.
- Developed training resources to evaluate learner competencies effectively.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to enhance training materials and resources.
- Maintained compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements in training delivery.
- Supported a positive learning environment with clear communication, active listening, and empathy for diverse learners.
- Assessed learner competencies through practical evaluations (National Assessment Instrument).
- Collaborated with management to align training programs with organisational goals.
- Conducted forklift and order picker refresher courses at multiple workplaces within Australia.
- Liaised with clients and RTO's to ensure compliance with VRQA regulations.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
Skills
- Auditing & Compliance Management (WorkSafe & ASQA)
- High Risk Work Licensing (LF & LO) – training & assessment
- Certificate IV TAE qualified
- OHS Legislation, Individual Assessor, WorkSafe Authorised RTO & National Assessment Instruments knowledge
- Extensive knowledge of MyWorkSafe portal
- Stakeholder Engagement & Consultancy (employers, managers, regulators)
- Learning Resource & Online Training Development
- Investigative & Analytical Skills – non-compliance resolution
- Leadership, Staff Management & Mentoring
- Extensive practical knowledge of counterbalance, reach, order picking forklifts and turret trucks
- Strong Written & Verbal Communication Skills
- Field-Based & Autonomous Work (including regional travel)
- Small business operations
- Customer relations
- Proficient in Microsoft Office suite, Google Workspace, MYOB, aXcelerate, UpSkill LMS and various online form building platforms
Accomplishments
- Successfully led Trainix for 10 years with a strong compliance record in all WorkSafe and ASQA audits.
- Developed learning resources that improved training, assessor consistency and student outcomes.
- Built and maintained strong industry and regulatory relationships, contributing to the RTO’s highly positive reputation.
- Managed team members and maintained a positive work environment with an extremely low turn over of staff.
Certification
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122 equivalent)
- High Risk Work Licence – LF (Forklift) & LO (Order Picker)
- Current Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Lead Auditor capability demonstrated through extensive audit management and compliance experience
- First Aid & CPR
Timeline
Owner / Director / WorkSafe Authorised Assessor
Trainix
06.2015 - Current
Trainer/Assessor/Senior Training Manager
Ausfork
03.2012 - 05.2015