Behind every SETS emergency response and rescue course, are knowledgeable trainers whose real-world experience drives their passion for the industry. From mine site rescues to first aid within the community, our trainers bring decades of experience into the classroom. A few of our team were happy to share their stories and what inspired their careers, the lessons they’ve learned, and their advice for anyone considering stepping into emergency response.

What First Sparked the Passion for Emergency Response?

Caleb, SETS Lead Trainer, shared that he was inspired during his school years after witnessing paramedics and fire fighters save three lives.

Janelle, SETS Training and Compliance Manager, shared that she discovered her calling for emergency response whilst working underground on a mine site in the 90s. She became captivated by an emergency response team in action and knew she wanted to step into the emergency response industry.

Neil, a Trainer and Assessor with SETS, shared that his drive comes from a simple but powerful thought – “The more people that are trained into handling an emergency situation, the safer we all are.”

SETS Training Administrator and Trainer, Ryan shared that his journey began at his surf lifesaving club, where teamwork and fast response are second nature – similar to emergency response personnel.

Memorable Moments That Defined a Career

For many of the SETS trainers, there are moments that remain unforgettable, times when training and instinct came together to change the outcome of an emergency.

Caleb recalls one such day when he rescued two people who were unconscious and lying in a sewer manhole 3 metres deep. As the only qualified paramedic onsite, he managed to bring both out safely. It was a defining experience that reflected why being prepared with necessary skills and quick response are so vital.

For Janelle, the proudest moments can sometimes come long after training has finished. One student, who previously trained with SETS, gave her a call following his first road crash rescue incident. During the call, he told Janelle that he initially found himself a little nervous but quickly stepped into action, picturing his SETS trainer “on his shoulder,” guiding him through the steps. Knowing that training translates directly into lives saved is what drives Janelle’s passion for the industry.

Neil reflects on similar situations, where his training and response skills have been called upon multiple times, both as part of a team and on his own. Each time, it reaffirms his belief in the importance of passing those skills on. And Ryan still remembers hearing that a student had applied their training almost immediately after leaving the classroom, stepping in to help during a roadside medical incident on their way home from their SETS Course!

The Qualities That Make a Strong Responder

Technical expertise is only part of the equation when it comes to emergency response. The SETS trainers agree that mindset is equally, if not more, important. Patience, humility, and the ability to truly listen are qualities that make someone stand out in high-pressure situations.

As Caleb often says, “Make sure you are doing something you love—it’s a rewarding career to save someone’s life.” Passion for helping others, combined with the courage to act when it matters most, is what transforms ordinary people into reliable responders.

From Responder to Trainer

Transitioning from working in the field to becoming a trainer has given each of them a new perspective. Caleb has found that no two students are the same, each person learns differently, and part of being a trainer is adapting to meet those needs.

For Janelle, the shift has been a reminder of how impactful a positive learning environment can be, not only for building skills but also for boosting confidence. Neil believes the passion of the trainer directly influences the level of engagement from students – if you care about the content, your students will too. And Ryan, who thrives on teamwork, values the hunger students bring to learn and the chance to shape that into confidence they’ll carry into their careers.

Why Ongoing Training Matters More Than Ever

Emergency response is an industry that never stands still. Equipment changes, procedures evolve, and expectations grow. Caleb points out that when he first started out in 1994, CPR and paramedic practices looked very different from today. Now, keeping up to date isn’t optional – it’s essential.

Janelle highlights how the industry now requires current, logged training records. A qualification from years ago no longer carries weight without evidence of continued practice. Neil sees blended learning, mixing virtual components with hands-on scenarios, playing an increasing role in the years ahead, making training more accessible without sacrificing realism.

Working at SETS Enterprises | More Than Just Training

Above all, the trainers agree that SETS is a special place to be part of. For Janelle, it’s the camaraderie, something that not only makes training enjoyable for staff, but also something students feel the moment they walk in. Ryan appreciates the strong organisation and teamwork, while Neil and Caleb both value the chance to help shape safer workplaces and pass on the skills that could one day save a life.

Could This Be Your Path?

The stories from the SETS training team show that emergency response is more than just a career – it’s a calling. It takes resilience, empathy, and the willingness to act, and while the work can be demanding, it is also deeply rewarding.

If you’ve ever wondered whether this path could be for you, the answer might just lie in the passion you feel when reading these stories. At SETS, you won’t just learn the skills you need, you’ll be guided by trainers who have lived them.

Ready to take the first step? Explore our RII30719 Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue or get in touch with our friendly training team to discuss whether this is the right step for you, and see how you can turn ambition into action.