u/daysofdreaming

Hey all

Im a 29yo career changer looking into retraining as a QS, I previously worked in the corporate auto collision repair industry as an estimator and parts manager and wanted change due to burnout.

Been researching studying QS in NZ and it appeals to me as its very common for people to work while they study and it possible to become fairly experienced by the time you graduate. Whats also appealing is that it qualifies you for a few different roles and industries

- i am considering the degree from Massey Uni by the way

Are there any other career changers out there who successfully pivoted to the world of construction?

In 2026 with the current job market is it still worth pursuing this as a profession?

Hi all,

Just wanting to gather thoughts on working on this part of the industry, ive worked in the with a few different corporate insurance collision repair MSO's over the years, and although they pay well im starting to get really sick of the BS that comes with it.

I've mostly worked on the office side of things, parts & estimating & before I was motivated to climb up the ladder into management but have realised that the stress that comes with it just isn't worth it anymore. Anyone who's worked in those roles would understand.

Any one had a similiar experience ? & for those who successfully pivoted out what did you do?

Hi all,

Looking at upskilling for another chapter of my career, have considered full career change but a commenter made a good point to build on my existing skills.

I work in the automotive industry & my job title is "procurement officer" , but the job itself isn't real procurement & I want to future proof myself and pivot out of automotive while Im still young & in a good position to do so. 28m with no kids or debt

I've found CIPS to come highly recommend and ive been looking into it for a few months now, tried looking into other study / career options but procurement is my best bet as it can be studied part time and parts of my experience aligns with it.

Just wondering if there were any others who have pivoted into this field ?

How did you get into it ?

What are some recommend qualifactions? Im aware of CIPS and P&C for public sector

How are the career opportunities?

Do you enjoy your job?

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Hey everyone,

just looking for some honest advice from people who’ve successfully changed careers in Australia.

I’m 27, currently based in Melbourne, originally from NZ.

Taking a transfer with my company which a large insurance collision repair mso.

My background is mainly automotive industry work — parts, estimating, workshop-related environments, fast-paced operations, dealing with suppliers/customers, scheduling, ordering stock, firefighting problems daily etc. I started from the bottom 5 years ago and showed rapid progression in terms of pay and promotions but

I’ve realised I don’t really want to stay in the traditional automotive path long term. The stress, constant urgency and ceiling on growth is getting to me a bit. I still work hard and perform well, but I’m trying to think more strategically about where I’ll actually be in 5–10 years.

I have a few transferable skills and am very keen on getting the right qualification that will help me get into a more sustainable career for the longterm.

I will also be setting up and appointment with a careers advisor but thought to post here and get insights from other career changers.

Right now I’m looking heavily into:

Procurement / supply chain

Compliance / governance

Health & Safety

Logistics / operations

& still open to finding new options

I’m willing to study part-time while working or even fulltime is there is a good pathway

I’ve already been looking at Cert IVs, procurement pathways, CIPS , maybe PM qualifications eventually.

A few things about my situation:

I have savings and no major debt

Already working in Australia but dont mind going back to NZ to retrain and start the pivot in another industry before coming back here stronger

Open to entry-level or sideways-move roles if there’s long-term upside

I don’t expect instant high pay, but I do want a career with progression and stability

I’m realistic that the market is rough right now

My main question is:

For someone with my background, what industries or roles are actually worth pivoting into in Australia right now?

Would also appreciate advice from people who transitioned from trades/automotive/manual industries into corporate or operational careers:

What worked?

What qualifications actually helped?

What was a waste of time?

What entry roles gave you the best long-term opportunities?

Appreciate any advice. Just trying to make smart moves while I’m still young enough to pivot properly.