Resilient Career Program 2026
Have you reached a point in your career where it no longer feels as clear, energising or purposeful as it once did? Or do you feel stuck, under-utilised, over-stretched, or simply unsure how to take the next sensible step? The Resilient Career Program for 2026 is designed for capable professionals who want to pause, reflect and regain momentum in a thoughtful and practical way.
The program helps participants step back from the noise of day-to-day work and examine their career with fresh eyes. Beginning with the participant’s skills, strengths, experience and aspirations, and then using guided reflection and practical exercises, participants identify what gives them energy, and where they can make their next contribution.
Career resilience is not about simply “bouncing back” or “pushing harder”. It is about developing the clarity, confidence and adaptability to make good career decisions in changing circumstances. For some participants, this may mean repositioning themselves, for others, it may mean reshaping their current role, rebuilding confidence after a difficult period, preparing for a promotion, or reconnecting with a stronger sense of purpose and direction. All of this will be supported with practical career action in résumés, interview preparation, networking conversations and career decision-making.
Underpinning career resilience is the ability to feel personally effective, and a new component of the 2026 program is a focus on the habits that help to maintain calm, clarity and momentum while navigating career uncertainty. Participants will explore how to manage internal noise, reduce avoidance, make progress in small but meaningful steps, and build practical routines that support action rather than rumination.
This program has been created for VPELA and is not a generic career workshop offering quick fixes or formulaic advice. It is designed for thoughtful people who want to make sense of where they are, build confidence in what they offer, and move forward with greater intention.
The Program is two half-day (3 hour) sessions, with pre-work and work to be completed between sessions. It also includes each participant having access to a coach for an individual follow-up clinic of 45 minutes.
How to Apply
Please submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) describing the benefit/s that you think this program could have for you (500 words max). Please note this program is only offered to members of VPELA. Participants will be asked to pay a small contribution of $150 upon acceptance into the program. The program is heavily subsidised thanks to the VPELA Endowment fund.
The closing date for EOI's is 5.00pm on Friday 31 July to [email protected]