Therese Frangie, now the CEO of Oporto, faced a rocky start after graduating from Maronite College of the Holy Family in western Sydney two decades ago. With no immediate plans for university and poor marks in her Higher School Certificate (HSC), she found herself uncertain about her future. Despite once being a high-achieving student, pressure and a lack of focus led to her being rejected from all her preferred university courses.
Frangie’s story took a positive turn when she accepted an assistant manager role at KFC, encouraged by her parents to “just do something.” This experience ignited her passion for business and set her on a path that would eventually lead to her current position at Oporto, a leading Australian Portuguese chicken franchise.
Education and Career Path
While Frangie initially lacked formal qualifications, she later pursued a diploma in business management from TAFE. She further enhanced her credentials by completing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) while serving as chief operating officer at Mad Mex, maintaining a commendable Grade Point Average of 6.
Frangie’s journey raises an important question for students graduating in 2025: Is a university education still the best route? The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to discussions about the relevance of university degrees, particularly as Australia faces a significant demand for skilled tradespeople. With institutions like the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the Australian National University cutting courses and staff, the value of traditional education is under scrutiny.
Jim Penman, founder and CEO of Jim’s Group, emphasizes the shifting job landscape. He encourages his son to consider a skilled trade apprenticeship, citing the high demand and earning potential in these fields. Penman warns against accumulating student debt for degrees that may not guarantee employment, a sentiment echoed by many in today’s rapidly evolving job market.
The Future of Job Qualifications
As the job market transforms, the demand for “human skills”—critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity—has become increasingly important. Brett Houldin, CEO of El Jannah, notes that while AI may handle many tasks, the ability to interpret information and make decisions remains invaluable.
Danielle Haddrick, CEO of Australian fashion brand Shona Joy, concurs, stating that soft skills learned through internships and part-time jobs are essential for standing out in job interviews. However, she also stresses the importance of university education for developing a strong work ethic and teamwork capabilities.
Identifying the most valuable qualifications for future graduates is challenging. Michael Schneider, managing director of Bunnings, sees growing importance in fields like renewable energy and digital literacy, alongside traditional sectors such as healthcare and trades. Schneider advises students to explore a range of subjects initially to discover their interests.
Frangie supports this idea, suggesting that pursuing broad degrees, like arts or business, can help students find their niche as they progress through their studies. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a growth mindset and being adaptable in the face of change.
Rebecca Frizelle, co-owner of the NRL’s Gold Coast Titans, echoes this sentiment, identifying future demand for graduates with expertise in data analytics, financial technology, AI, and cybersecurity. She highlights the importance of understanding how to leverage technology effectively, particularly in fields like sports technology.
The Key to Career Success
The overarching message from these industry leaders is clear: find what excites you and be open to various career paths. Frangie summarizes her parents’ advice, encouraging students to take that first step, whether through a degree or an entry-level job.
“If you start somewhere, find a passion, and work hard, you can achieve your goals,” she states, reinforcing that education is a continuous journey rather than a final destination.
As the landscape of work continues to evolve, students entering the job market must embrace change and remain agile. The future may not guarantee traditional paths, but with the right mindset and a willingness to learn, there are countless opportunities for those ready to seize them.
