North Lakes-based Asset College is celebrating 20 years in business with a major industry accolade, taking out Large Training Provider of the Year at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards.
The win has also put the registered training organisation in the running for national recognition, with Asset College named a finalist in the same category at the Australian Training Awards.
For Managing Director Mark Costello, who has called the City of Moreton Bay home since 2003, the recognition marks a significant milestone for a business that has grown from its first campus at Surfers Paradise in 2006 to four campuses across Queensland and New South Wales.
Asset College established its presence in North Lakes in 2008, initially operating from Westfield before relocating to a larger, two-storey campus on Flinders Parade in 2020 to accommodate its growing operations.
Today, the organisation delivers vocational training across security operations, risk management, investigations, cyber security, business, leadership and work health and safety, with a focus on preparing students for employment and helping existing workers develop their skills.
Mark believes the organisation’s close relationships with industry have been central to its success, particularly through its Employer Connections® Program, which brings employers into the training process and helps connect students with career opportunities.
“I think one of our strengths is how closely we connect training with industry,” Mark said.
“Through our Employer Connections® Program, employers help shape our understanding of workforce needs and connect directly with students about career opportunities.”
That approach also extends to programs designed to create employment pathways for people who may face additional barriers, including women entering the security industry, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants and veterans transitioning into new careers.
Mark said the Queensland award was recognition of the collective effort behind those programs, from trainers and student support staff to administration and management teams.
“Receiving that recognition in our 20th anniversary year makes it particularly meaningful.”
With Asset College now representing Queensland at the national awards, Mark sees an opportunity to showcase what a business headquartered in the City of Moreton Bay can achieve while contributing to workforce development across Australia.
“Being a national finalist is an opportunity to showcase what a business based in Moreton Bay can achieve through a committed team, strong partnerships and a clear focus on quality.”
Looking ahead to 2027, Asset College plans to build on its employer partnerships, expand access to career pathways and explore how technology can support trainers and improve the learning experience.
The focus, Mark said, will remain on ensuring innovation delivers practical benefits for students and the industries looking to develop their future workforce.
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