QPAC

One of the most exciting parts of Tech Connect is seeing trainees take what they've learnt and turn it into a career. 

That's exactly what happened for Ruby Bell at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC). 

After completing her traineeship earlier this year, Ruby stayed on as a casual while continuing to build her skills. When an opportunity arose, she stepped into higher duties before being appointed as the venue's full-time Lighting Technician. 

Looking back, Ruby says one of the biggest highlights of the traineeship was simply being trusted. 

"Being trusted to operate lighting for events was a huge moment for me." 

She also remembers travelling to Brisbane for the Tech Connect Block Training as one of the standout experiences of the year, meeting trainees from across Queensland and learning alongside people from different venues. 

These days, no two shifts are the same. 

Ruby spends her time operating productions, maintaining equipment, learning new skills on the lighting console and is currently working towards becoming qualified in testing and tagging. 

One recent highlight was operating Music of the Night, featuring songs from the musicals of Andrew Lloyd Webber. 

"It was so cool to be part of." 

Ruby's story is exactly why TechConnect exists. Supporting emerging technicians, creating opportunities and helping talented people build long-term careers within Queensland's live performance industry. 

We're incredibly proud of everything Ruby has achieved and can't wait to see what's next.