Persistence and Patience – Kelvin’s Formula for Career Success

Kelvin Bathern’s path into security wasn’t a straight line—it was a winding road shaped by persistence, patience, and lived experience. After serving in the Army Reserves until 2017, Kelvin found himself working in various security roles across Darwin and Alice Springs. Though he once walked away from what he called his “dream job,” life had a way of circling back to his strengths. “Security was always my wildcard,” Kelvin reflected. “No matter where I went or what I did, I always found my way back to it.”

Kelvin’s journey was not without hardship. After facing professional setbacks and personal challenges—including a deep period of reflection and a need to “lose himself to find himself again”—he eventually returned to Alice Springs with a renewed sense of purpose. Working various jobs, including mowing on the highways and temporary security gigs, he began rebuilding the foundation of his career.

Training with Asset College – Finding Purpose and Mentorship

When Kelvin enrolled in Asset College’s security course in Alice Springs, it marked a pivotal turning point. It wasn’t just the course content that stood out—it was the people.

Meeting his trainer Ian, whom Kelvin now describes as “an awesome guy” and someone he’d “love to work under,” reignited his confidence and passion for the industry. “Ian’s been there, done that—he knows what the security game is all about,” Kelvin said. “Give him a medal and a cigar!”

The training wasn’t just about certification—it was about rediscovering a calling. “Everything just clicked. It gave me direction again,” he said.

Landing the Role – Back Where He Belongs

Thanks to the support of his network and the skills he honed at Asset College, Kelvin was headhunted by his former regional manager, who immediately placed him at RAAF Base Tindal. “He still had time for me, and as soon as he heard I was in town, he said, ‘You’re not working around town. You’re going to the base.’”

Now fully embedded in a role that he loves, Kelvin is working with a supportive team and thriving under a strong supervisor. “I love my job. I love where I am right now. It’s awesome.”

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Security Professionals

Kelvin doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of security work—but he’s a firm believer in its potential for the right person. His top tips?

• Persistence and Patience: “You’ve got to have them both. They’ll get you where you need to be.”
• Emotional Intelligence: “You’ve got to know how to deal with people’s emotions. Not everyone’s going to like you, but you’ve still got to do your job.”
• Communication is Key: “Don’t stand there with your arms folded trying to look tough—you’ll wear yourself out. Talk to people, reason with them.”
• Bring the Right Energy: “Even if you have a bad morning, don’t bring that to work. Spread good vibes. People want to work with someone positive.”

A Lasting Career and a Message for Others

Kelvin sees security as a lifelong fallback—a steady anchor in a changing world. No longer able to serve in the reserves due to age limits, he now channels his discipline, experience, and people skills into protecting others.

His message for others is clear: “You’ll find a workplace you want to be in and a team you love working with. Asset College helped me get there. If you’re thinking about security, look them up—and ask for Ian!”

Congratulations, Kelvin, on your success and for inspiring others with your story. Your journey proves that with grit, a good mentor, and the right mindset, anything is possible.