Local graduates from Good Shepherd Lutheran College turned savvy entrepreneurs have already transformed a business idea into reality.
Cole Campbell and Cole Suter have started an online business selling small quantities of graphite products including graphite blocks, graphite rods, and flexible graphite sheets to businesses all over Australia.
Their newest product is Rigid Graphite Insulation. By utilising the insulating properties of graphite combined with classic insulating techniques, they offer a range of industrial-grade insulating materials. Other customers have included universities, glassblowers, and rocket manufacturers.
In 2019 both students were fortunate to connect with a local business and engage in work experience with Graphite Australia, a supplier of quality graphite and carbon products.
Graphite Australia were pleased to participate in the Good Shepherd Lutheran College Work Experience program and commend the College for supporting students to gain exposure to the world of business and entrepreneurship.
Natasha Purcell, Careers Counsellor at Good Shepherd said, “Work experience is so vital for students, it allows them a deeper exploration into the world of work and insights into how to apply their skills and abilities.“
“We were thrilled to see how these students grabbed the opportunity to translate their experience into a concrete plan and resulting business venture. We are confident that the skills they have gained through this venture will allow them to succeed in the future.”
During their placement with Graphite Australia the students gained insight into international sales and marketing and received an explanation of various graphite products, their manufacturing processes and industry applications.
Mr Suter said, “The work experience placement was a fantastic opportunity to gain firsthand experience about what real international business looks like. The entire experience was extremely engaging and educational.“
But their experience didn’t end there. Prior to the chaos that COVID-19 brought with it, their knowledge of procurement was further enhanced by a trip to China to meet with multiple suppliers and the companies’ procurement partner.
“The visit to China reinforced the importance of personal interaction and the ability to understand and respect other cultures with a view to long-term, business cooperation,” Mr Campbell said.
After cementing a good understanding of the product and processes, these two Good Shepherd graduates proceeded to complete the necessary business set up which included the development of a website, various business-related registrations, and financial planning, before launching Speciality Graphite Australia in 2019. The business has since been growing in size and reputation.
