New Swinburne industry partners transforms business students’ career

Nathan Rhodes didn’t know the emerging field of marketing technology was an in-demand industry. Now, he’s forging an exciting path forward in the sector. The Swinburne graduate understands the transformative power of working closely with industry whilst studying, thanks to the university’s strong suite of partnerships.

“I went straight from my placement into paid work. It was the best way to forge ahead with my career path,” he says.

The Bachelor of Business Information Technology student was promoted within six months of landing a graduate job, which he largely credits to gaining a head start with his work placement at ARQ Group and Deloitte.

“The closeness to industry at Swinburne set me up for this success. It taught me how to network, how to operate, how to communicate to stakeholders in plain language,” Nathan says. “If you’re a hard-core engineer, sometimes that can be hard. So, it’s really been invaluable.”

Next-gen partnerships

Swinburne University of Technology’s new partnerships will deliver hands-on undergraduate and postgraduate learning outcomes through Swinburne’s Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship. The partnerships will focus on key areas of strategic value for learners, including innovation and finance. 

This step ensures students receive a full complement of knowledge and practical experience in their fields as they progress throughout study. The leading global companies collaborating with Swinburne include:

• Avanade – discipline expert for entrepreneurship and innovation,

• William Buck – discipline expert for accounting and wealth advice, and

• NCS Australia – discipline expert for business analytics, analysis and information systems.  

Director, Industry Engagement of Swinburne’s School of Business, Law & Entrepreneurship Alexander Kaiser says the university’s programs are meticulously crafted with the future in mind.

“With over a century of experience, we’re committed to delivering transformative education through robust industry involvement, social inclusivity and a resolute drive for positive impact across our undergraduate and postgraduate degrees."

“As a progressive institution, Swinburne constantly refines its approach, ensuring students benefit from top-tier education and global industry exposure. By collaborating with industry across key disciplines, Swinburne is solidifying its position as a trailblazer in preparing individuals of all backgrounds for tomorrow's workforce.”

The business of success

Nathan says that industry experience is world-expanding for students.

“I went into my degree very much thinking I want to work in gaming or a more traditional data engineering role. But with the encouragement of my tutors, it exposed me to a bunch of new areas, which really pushed me out of my comfort zone.

Now a Senior Customer Success Engineer, Nathan has some advice for those looking forward to their potential career paths.

“Make the most out of the connections to industry. I didn’t even know marketing technology was a thing and then I graduated feeling really excited about it."

“Industry wise, I’m touching all aspects of tech in one environment. I knew I didn’t want to be behind a desk 100 per cent of the time. So, the consulting aspect of working with marketing tech is completely the right fit for me. I’m loving it.”   

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