20+ YEARS OF TRAINING
About Us
Operating as an RTO (#5800) in QLD for over two decades, ABC Training and Consulting, originally known as Alan Bartlett Consulting, underwent a transformative shift in 2017 under new management. This change brought about a focused approach, directing our training services towards specialised industry sectors: Laboratory Operations, Pathology, and Manufacturing.
Our training methodology centers on a blended learning model, incorporating hands-on practical training through on-the-job experiences like demonstrations, observations, and discussions. This practical element is complemented by an online or paper-based theoretical component.
What sets us apart is our remarkable agility in adapting and tailoring training solutions to meet your specific needs, surpassing the standards of other RTOs in Australia. Our trainers build connections with clients and students that extend beyond professional roles, often evolving into enduring friendships.
We provide training across educational levels, from school to university and industry. Our commitment extends beyond the training period, maintaining ongoing contact with students and boasting a notable track record of successful job placements. Serving a diverse clientele, including large-scale national clients and small businesses, our partnerships with Seaworld and Queensland Academy schools further distinguish us in the training and consulting landscape.
Experience
Meet Our Corporate Team
Nathan Baratta
CEO
With a Bachelor of Business degree specialising in Marketing, Nathan’s journey traverses through diverse professional domains. For eight years, he honed my skills in sales at Carlton United Breweries, engaging with pubs and clubs to distribute alcohol. He then assumed the role of Queensland State Manager for a leading national magazine sales and distribution company, relishing the challenges of overseeing operations. Amidst these ventures, Nathan collaborated with his father for 18 months, immersed in the gratifying pursuit of purchasing, renovating, and selling houses, revelling in the tangible progress witnessed daily. Presently, embarking on his 13th year in the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) sector, his journey began as a National Accounts Manager, weaving a narrative of continuous growth and learning. Beyond the professional sphere, Nathan harbours a profound passion for golf, albeit preferring sunny weather. His ultimate dream is to one day own a 1966 Ford Mustang, and proudly declares himself as a wine connoisseur.
Dean Olzard
General Manager
Dean became an integral part of ABC in 2021, initially joining as a CMT specialist Trainer before advancing to the role of QLD State Training Manager. His journey with ABC, however, started in 2009 as a lab technician in a Construction Materials Laboratory. After swiftly completing his first qualification with ABC Training and Consulting, Dean’s career trajectory came full circle when he returned as a trainer, giving back to the organisation that laid the foundation for his professional growth. The exceptional trainers at ABC, who once shaped Dean’s learning journey, inspired him to contribute as a trainer. Now, as the General Manager, Dean leads this outstanding team, acknowledging ABC’s unwavering commitment to supporting trainees. The organisation’s emphasis on individual growth and development resonates deeply with Dean, making his role as General Manager both fulfilling and purpose-driven.
Luke Doré
NSW State Manager
Luke’s career path exemplifies lifelong learning. A former client of ABC Training for 19 years, he progressed from a Certificate III in Laboratory Skills (2005) to an Advanced Diploma in Laboratory Operations (2018) before joining the team in 2022. With extensive experience in Construction Material Testing, Luke has led national training initiatives in previous roles. His passion for adult education, strengthened by his own learning journey and a Bachelor’s degree in Business, underscores his commitment to effective leadership. As a NATA assessor, he ensures the highest standards in ABC Training programs. Luke leverages his diverse background and leadership skills to maintain the excellence of ABC Training programs across the state. His dedication to quality and innovation positively impacts both students and the industry. Outside of work, Luke enjoys the thrill of ice hockey and the creative outlet of playing guitar. He is also a dedicated “netball dad” and “dance dad,” actively cheering on his two daughters at their competitions.
Adrian Van Ravels
QLD State Manager
Adrian van Ravels is a qualified Industrial Chemist with expertise in metallurgical chemistry. Over the past 25 years, he has served as a Lecturer, Consultant, Trainer, and Assessor for laboratories in both industry and education. In 2024, Adrian stepped into the role of QLD State Manager, furthering his commitment to advancing laboratory and field-testing standards. His extensive career as a working scientist spans the mining and pharmaceutical sectors in Australia, as well as across the Middle East, Russia, and Slavic regions. His hands-on experience encompasses chemistry, microbiology, and physical testing, focusing on Quality Assurance and Quality Control systems. Adrian excels in method development, instrument validation, stability, formulation, and statistical monitoring of data, including uncertainty of measurement. Alongside his scientific qualifications, Adrian holds Diplomas in WHS and Project Management, emphasising his dedication to workplace health and safety in laboratory and field-testing environments. His diverse laboratory testing proficiency covers mining, petroleum, food, soil, asphalt, and emulsions, among other fields.
Alescia Nicholas
Quality Manager
Alescia oversees risk management, quality, and compliance efforts, collaborating with stakeholders to maintain quality standards and develop efficient work systems. With six years of experience as a Laboratory Trainer and Assessor, she impacted over 500 students, leading projects in Vocational Education and Training in Schools (VETis) and contributing to the development of new training packages. In her previous roles, including as an Operator Assistant at the Adelaide Desalination Plant and a Field Sampling Technician, Alescia ensured production, quality, and safety standards were met. She conducted diverse field water tests and performed tasks in microbiology laboratories. Alescia holds Diploma in Vocational Education and Training, a Diploma in Training Design and Development, a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, and a Bachelor of Applied Science (Biochemistry) from Queensland University of Technology. Beyond work, she is passionate about camping, reading fantasy novels, attending bush doofs and gigs, and creating delicious culinary feasts. Alescia believes in working hard and playing hard, creating a balance that fuels both personal and professional growth.
Meet Our Sales Team
Nadia Taylor
Sales Manager
Nadia joined the ABC Training team as Sales Manager in May 2024, bringing with her eight years of extensive experience in the training industry. Her career began at SGS Australia, where she rose from the role of Learning and Development Coordinator to National Training Manager. Nadia oversaw two training divisions at SGS —one as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and the other offering non-accredited programs. Ready to make waves in the Sales team, Nadia is keen to hit the ground running while also continuing to pursue her Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE). She also already holds a Diploma in events and business! Outside of her professional life, Nadia is a proud mother of two girls. She is a passionate foodie who loves traveling the world and indulging in culinary delights. In her spare time, she enjoys baking and spending quality moments with her children…….and occasionally her husband.
Matthew Beal
Business Development Manager
Matthew joined the ABC Sales Team in 2024, bringing with him three years of experience in the Vocational Education and Training sector. In addition, he holds extensive expertise in Business Development and Account Management across various industries, including Information Technology, Manufacturing, Print, Hospitality, Supply Management, and Petroleum. Outside of work, Matt is passionate about sports, food, cooking, and family. He enjoys watching sports from the couch with his family while savoring great food, with Italian cuisine being a household favorite—especially homemade pasta. Matt’s weekends are filled with dance classes, competitions, and boxing, where he takes on the role of the preferred Uber driver for his inspired kids.
Jana Wilbert
Business Development Manager
Jana joined ABC Training in October 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for fostering business growth. With a Bachelor of Management and a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching, she began her career as a primary teacher before moving into business development. Over the past 15 years, Jana has worked as a Business Development Manager across multiple industries, including recruitment, construction, software, and various Registered Training Organisations. Originally from Melbourne, Jana moved to the Gold Coast six years ago, seeking warmer climates and new opportunities. She now resides in Coolangatta – the perfect location to compliment her love of the beach, surfing, music, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
Max Tan
QLD Relationship Manager
In 2020, Max became a valuable member of the ABC team. Kicking off his professional journey with Telstra right after university, he quickly earned recognition as the Quantum Leap winner in 2001 and 2002. Max navigated various roles in the IT & T sector, showcasing his prowess in leading Business Development and Commercial teams. His expertise led him overseas to serve as the Vice President in Investor Relations, Information Technology, and Corporate Affairs for one of the world’s largest publicly listed tiles manufacturing companies. Max’s dynamic career trajectory reflects a seasoned professional with a knack for excelling in diverse sectors and contributing significantly to the organisations he engages with.
Rebecca I’Anson
Pathology Relationship Manager
Rebecca I’Anson, a genuine country girl, embarked on her journey with ABC in 2023. Born in Dalby and proudly calling Gympie home for the past 38 years, Rebecca’s early years were marked by a passion for rodeo life. Winning the junior bullride and organizing a significant rodeo event in Gympie at 17 showcased her determination. Beyond rodeos, she embraced rugby union and league, even founding the Sunshine Coast Women’s Indigenous Rugby 7’s team. Transitioning to healthcare, Rebecca dedicated over 7 years to pathology, focusing on community well-being. Previously, she made a profound impact working with special needs children at Education Queensland. A devoted mother of four teenage boys, Rebecca’s diverse experiences reflect a country girl’s big heart, committed to community service and cherishing unforgettable rodeo memories.
Adrian Fletcher
Account Manager
Adrian has spent over three decades in the AFL system, with 15 years as a player and an additional 15 years as a coach at both elite and developmental levels. This extensive experience has honed his key strengths in relationship building, communication, technical expertise, and high performance. During his early playing career, Adrian also completed a plumbing apprenticeship and secured his trade license. He later transitioned into the business sector, earning an MBA with a focus on strategic planning, marketing, human resource management, finance, contract law, and performance management. Adrian is passionate about maintaining fitness and is always seeking new opportunities to learn, grow, and evolve.
Erin McKenna
Marketing Coordinator
Erin joined our team in December 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and fresh energy from Glasgow, Scotland. A graduate in Business and Marketing, Erin has spent the past four years honing her skills across various facets of marketing. While she’s an all-rounder, her true passion lies in social media and creating engaging, fun content that resonates. Outside of work, Erin is a fitness enthusiast who can often be found at the gym, exploring beautiful beaches, or indulging her love for travel and great food- especially anything sweet!
Meet Our Education Pathways Team
Steve Boyle
Education Pathways Manager
Steve’s professional journey began at Hanson Australia, where he dedicated 16 years honing his expertise and eventually ascending to the prestigious role of a NATA signatory. His tenure at Hanson was marked by his commitment to excellence in concrete, concrete applications, trial mixes, and additives. Steve’s career then took an exciting turn when he decided to embark on a new chapter with ABC Training as a Trainer/Assessor, specialising in the intricacies of concrete. Despite his impressive track record in the concrete industry, Steve’s true passion was ignited when he discovered the enriching realm of the Schools Program at ABC. In 2023, he made the transition into the Education Pathways Team, where he found fulfilment in guiding aspiring learners towards their academic and professional goals. Steve revels in the opportunities his role at ABC brings, particularly the chance to travel nationwide, connect with diverse individuals, and help them achieve their dreams. During his younger years, Steve rocked out as a drummer in punk bands across Brisbane, sporting the iconic long hair and exuding a rebellious energy that still resonates with his character today.
Gemma Kolyvas
Education Pathways Administration
Gemma hails from Sydney but experienced a nomadic childhood due to her father’s demanding job as an underground coal miner. Her formative years were spent in Emerald and Blackwater before settling in Brisbane at the age of 15, a city she has called home ever since. Remarkably, her children now attend the same high school she once did. Professionally, Gemma has primarily worked in retail and customer service management, but seeking a change, she transitioned to an administrative role with ABC Training in 2023. Embracing the team atmosphere of her position in school administration, she has found navigating the administrative responsibilities both challenging and fulfilling. An intriguing tidbit about Gemma is her past as a Queensland Girls Motocross Champion in her youth, though nowadays, she humorously admits she struggles to even ride a bicycle.
Meet Our Training Team
Sharyn Morgan
Senior Trainer/Assessor
Born and raised in New Zealand, Sharyn’s life took a turn in 2008 with a move to Australia, setting the stage for a two-decade career in healthcare. After earning her nursing degree, she spent four fulfilling years as a nurse before transitioning to the role of a phlebotomist in the world of Pathology. This marked the beginning of a 20-year journey, navigating various roles such as Inhouse Trainer, 2IC, and Collection Supervisor, each enriching her expertise. In 2012, Sharyn entered the realm of RTOs as a Trainer and Assessor, bridging education and the Pathology industry to mentor aspiring professionals. Joining ABC Training in 2021 was a significant milestone, where she was so pleased to find a supportive work culture and camaraderie amongst her co-workers. Beyond work, Sharyn finds joy in travel, family time, craft breweries, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through the gym.
Sonja Jovanovic
Senior Trainer/Assessor
Sonja joined ABC in June 2022, bringing with her over 30 years of experience in the laboratory sector. Throughout her extensive career, she has held various technical and management roles across a diverse range of industries including Pathology, Pharmaceutical, Food and Beverage, Agriculture, and Processing. Her expertise is further highlighted by her tenure as a NATA Lead Assessor and Accreditation Specialist, where she was responsible for coordinating and delivering accreditation services, conducting assessments and providing essential support to both existing and prospective members. In her personal life, Sonja is a proud mother to one daughter, balancing her professional achievements with her family responsibilities.
Kevin Fenn
Trainer/Assessor
Kevin boasts an extensive 14-year tenure within Education Queensland, where he served in diverse capacities ranging from Laboratory Technician to Senior School Data Analyst, Workplace Health & Safety Advisor, Robotics Technician, and Business Manager Human Resources. Prior to this, he contributed his skills as a Pilot Plant Technician at the Queensland Department of Primary Industries Food Technology Division and as a Primary Production Manager at Peplin Biotech, a pharmaceutical company later acquired by Leo Pharma. In 2020, Kevin transitioned to ABC Training, drawn by the need to cultivate practical knowledge and understanding within Queensland schools amidst the shift to ATAR in senior schooling. His most cherished aspect of working with ABC is witnessing the growth of students, observing them make meaningful personal breakthroughs within the training environment that undoubtedly propel them forward in their careers. Beyond his professional endeavors, Kevin wears another hat as one of the owners of the sole Australian Bananaball Team, the Aussie Drop Bears, renowned for their matches against the Savannah Bananas, a spectacle that has garnered attention even on platforms like TikTok.
Tanya Dilley
Trainer/Assessor
Tanya joined the ABC team in 2023 after 17 years as a Geotechnician speclising in quarry, concrete, soils and project management. With a Certificate II in Construction Materials Testing, Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques and Diploma of Laboratory Technology under her belt, we are so excited to have her on board to upskill workers in the Northern Queensland region. After working as a Laboratory Supervisor focusing on quarry and concrete business development and management and Laboratory Manager at Douglas Partners, she decided it was time to put the tools down and train the future generation of technicians. When asked for a Fun Fact about herself, Tanya proudly announced she was Guess Who Champion….in the 5th grade.
Marty Bell
Trainer/Assessor
Fondly referred to as Mr Australasia within the office and proudly being involved in Olympic Weightlifting in the past, Marty Bell holds a Bachelor of Science majoring in Earth Science. Marty transitioned into a diverse career path that spans over 13 years in retail management and 4 years in construction material testing and earthworks. In the early months of 2023, he joined ABC as a Trainer/Assessor specialising in Laboratories and Manufactured Mineral Products. What he cherishes most about his tenure at ABC is the opportunity to connect with individuals nationwide, spanning various industries and settings such as construction, mining, munitions, food, research and development, and education. Marty’s passion for meeting people and his versatile background make him a valuable asset, adding a dynamic dimension to the diverse landscape of ABC. His engaging presence and extensive experience reflect his commitment to contributing meaningfully to the learning and development of individuals across Australia.
Carmela Pepperall
Trainer/Assessor
Carmela, fondly known as Cam among her peers, embarked on her professional journey with the ABC team in August 2022, specialising in Pathology Collection. Her career trajectory took shape during her tenure as a proctor at Laverty, where her exceptional skills earned her the opportunity to transition into a full-time training role with ABC while maintaining her ties with Laverty and cherished friendships. Beyond the realm of work, Carmela finds solace and joy in various pursuits. A devoted mother to her two daughters, she balances her time between family life and her passions, which encompass horseriding, netball, and motorbike riding. It’s her remarkable achievements in barrel racing that truly define her spirit. At the tender ages of 13 and 14, Carmela clinched the coveted title of Newcastle Show Barrel Racing Champion not once, but twice, a testament to her determination and prowess in the equestrian arena.
Dawn Mansfield
Trainer/Assessor
Dawn embarked on her career in pathology collection at Laverty, dedicating a decade to serving as a dedicated home visit pathology collector. Her commitment to patient care and precision in sample collection was evident throughout her tenure. Transitioning to CSL Behring, Dawn spent a year focusing on collecting plasma from donors, further broadening her expertise in the field. Driven by her deep-seated passion for teaching and advancing pathology, Dawn transitioned into her current role, where she collaborates closely with NSW Health Pathology. Here, she not only applies her extensive experience but also fulfils her aspiration to educate and mentor others in the field. Outside of her professional achievements, Dawn finds profound fulfilment in her family life. She treasures moments spent with her three children and three beloved grandchildren, who are the heart of her world and a constant source of joy and inspiration.
TJ Kinnane
Trainer/Assessor
Originally from Mackay, Queensland, TJ has dedicated a decade to the field of soil testing. During three of those years, he served as a Senior Technician in Mackay before transitioning to the Corporate team, where he handled national Quality and Training Compliance before embarking on major projects. The remaining seven years saw him immersed in asphalt labs, focusing on mix design and compliance for notable projects such as the Gateway upgrade and the Ipswich Motorway expansion. In recent years, TJ has primarily focused on designing new asphalt mixes, with a keen emphasis on integrating recyclable materials such as plastic pellets, glass, and old road tires. His favourite aspect of working for ABC is the opportunity to visit various labs across the nation and witness their operations firsthand. Outside of work, TJ is an avid music enthusiast who enjoys attending live performances and has traversed the globe to partake in festivals.
Tanja Medanic
Trainer/Assessor
Tanja Medanic joined the ABC Training team in 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience and expertise. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Textile Technology from the University of New South Wales. For 14 years, Tanja worked in textile laboratory testing and management, where she was responsible for testing both raw and finished textile materials. She was later promoted to product development and marketing, where she played a key role in launching new fabrics for the renowned Luxaflex window furnishing brand. Tanja also spent over four years as part of the NATA Lead Accreditation Specialist team, servicing Construction Material Testing laboratories. At ABC Training, Tanja enjoys maintaining relationships with the laboratories she connected with during her time at NATA. She also values the opportunity to participate in the Schools Program, where she empowers younger learners. Outside of work, Tanja’s greatest achievements are her three grown-up children. In her spare time, she loves to stay active by climbing mountains, exploring new tracks, and sailing.
Clare Whelan
Trainer/Assessor
Clare Whelan, born in Dublin, Ireland, moved to Australia in 2010 to travel and quickly fell in love with the country, eventually settling in Darwin in 2011. In 2012, she began her career with Douglas Partners as a CMT Laboratory Technician. In 2021, she relocated to Ballina, NSW, where she served as Branch Manager and Laboratory Manager for two years. Clare left the company in late 2023 to embark on a new career path. Clare holds a Certificate III and IV in Laboratory Techniques, an Advanced Diploma of Laboratory Operations, and a Certificate IV in TAE40122. Her passion for teaching and mentoring young technicians was a highlight of her role as Laboratory Manager. Clare earned all her CMT qualifications through ABC Training and Consulting, which set her on the path to a remarkable career. She is now excited to join the team as a Trainer and Assessor, marking a full-circle moment in her professional journey. A fun fact about Clare is that she has a love for hiking, leading her to summit Cradle Mountain in Tasmania in late 2023, igniting a newfound passion for mountain climbing.
Ben Howard
Trainer/Assessor
Ben Howard embarked on his career in soil testing and construction materials analysis over 12 years ago. Initially starting in Hervey Bay, he relocated to Sydney, where he honed his skills and made significant contributions to major infrastructure projects throughout the city. In 2021, Ben moved to the Sunshine Coast and played a crucial role in the Cooroy to Curra Project, where his expertise became vital to the soil testing team. Ben holds a Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques and several other qualifications, underscoring his commitment to safety, quality, and ongoing education. His passion for teaching and mentoring has driven him to his current role as a Trainer & Assessor, where he is dedicated to preparing the next generation of professionals while fostering strong relationships and upholding high standards of safety and quality. Beyond his professional endeavors, Ben is an avid sports enthusiast with a deep love for health and fitness. His enthusiasm for both teaching and learning, combined with his dedication to safety, makes him a valuable asset to our team.
Testiomonials
Results we have helped create
VET in Schools Science Programs VETiS
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