Getting a job at one of Alice Springs’ top tourist attractions isn’t easy.

But through hard work, dedication and passion, one young man has maintained steady employment with the famous Alice Springs Desert Park for almost 5 years.

Aaron Curtis got his foot in the door at the Park as part of a school-based traineeship studying a Certificate II in Tourism, specialising in Guiding.

Throughout his traineeship, Aaron was already exhibiting some of the work ethic he continues to bring to the park today, completing his traineeship while maintaining a casual job at Mcdonald’s and successfully graduating from High School.

Aaron’s duties at the Park have been exciting from day one, where he began working with the Park’s birds of prey.

After months of keenly observing Park guides presenting to tourists, Aaron soon started joining in on talks and Q&A sessions.

Aaron began working full-time at the Park, speaking to thousands of tourists every year informing visitors about local flora and fauna, cultural men’s business, and guiding visitors on the Park’s nocturnal tour.

Today Aaron has moved on to the Park’s horticultural department, where he is learning new skills such as plant cultivation, land biodiversity and conservation.

Aaron says he wouldn’t have achieved what he has today without the team’s ongoing support at STEPS Employment Solutions.

“They have always been so supportive, and very respectful”.

Aaron is now studying a Certificate III in Land Management with the Batchelor Institute while continuing to work at the Alice Springs Desert Park.

While he hopes to one day travel and explore the Northern Territory, he is happy to continue doing what he likes the most.

“I love working outdoors, talking with visitors and guiding them through the Park”.

We love watching our customers learn and grow, and we’re there to provide support every step of the way. Email us for information on how we can help you on your career path – we’d love to hear from you!