Alumni Spotlight

🌟 Real-World Inspiration for Our Future IT Leaders 🌟

On Friday October 10th, Berwick College was proud to welcome back two exceptional alumni: Steve Hooper and Trent Davey, who returned to speak with our Year 12 IT students about life after school, navigating career pathways, and their unique journeys into the world of technology.

Both Steve and Trent are now thriving in impactful roles within the tech and data sectors. Their stories reminded us that careers are rarely linear, and that’s not only okay, but often a strength.

Steve Hooper (Departed Berwick in 1981)

Managing Director & Chief Product Officer, Interpreter Management System (IMS)

Steve now leads IMS, a health-tech platform used in hospitals and various sectors across Australia and internationally to manage interpreter services. His journey began with the Royal Australian Navy, where he served for 14 years before transitioning into IT — a field he admits he "fell into," but quickly came to love.

As a student from Berwick College’s foundation class in 1977, Steve shared memories of watching the school grow during his time, and his visit today was in fact the first time he has returned since leaving in 1981. Steve looks forward to celebrating 50 years of Berwick College coming up in 2027 and reconnecting with hopefully some of his cohort.

Trent Davey (Class of 2005)

Data and Performance Analyst, Global Data Reporting

Trent’s path into tech looked very different. After studying IT at Monash University, he initially worked in the automotive industry, managing a parts sales store, before pivoting into IT-focused roles within the same sector. Today, he works in global data reporting, helping organisations understand and act on complex data insights.

Trent emphasised the importance of embracing learning and stepping outside your comfort zone (where the magic happens!), and even quoted Peter Brock saying "Bite off more than you can chew, then chew like hell." Trent has also reflected on how Berwick College encouraged students to explore diverse career pathways — a message that has stayed with him throughout his own journey.

Both alumni engaged thoughtfully with our students, answering questions about their careers, study paths, and experiences working in the tech world. They also took time to learn about the students’ own work this year, including some impressive school projects. These included an app to help manage study and homework, as well as another designed to track and monitor progress in learning new skills like playing the guitar.

A heartfelt thank you to Steve and Trent for generously sharing your time, insights, and encouragement. Your visit has undoubtedly sparked inspiration, curiosity, and maybe even a little extra motivation ahead of exams. We hope to see you both these Berwick College Alumni again soon!

Do you know an alum of Berwick College with a great story, and perhaps someone willing to come back and inspire the next generation of Berwick graduates? Get in touch, and email us at alumni@berwickcollege.vic.edu.au