Jack – Around the World to the Warehouse

Jack’s journey, like many others, hasn’t followed the traditional path. After deciding to leave school early, he set out to pursue his love for adventure and travel, starting with a surfing trip across Indonesia. By the time he returned home to the Northern Rivers, Jack was still faced with a familiar challenge – ‘what’s next for me?’

That curiosity and openness toward new experiences led Jack to NextShip, initially through family connections. What started as a casual conversation, quickly evolved into a leadership role that has shaped both his professional and personal growth.

“Every day brought something new to solve. I didn’t have all the answers — but I learned how to find them.”

Jack

From the Ground, Up

The ‘Warehouse’ was entirely a blank canvas. A newly acquired space waiting for structure and purpose. Drawing on his experience helping with his father’s eCommerce business, Jack was given the lead in designing and setting up the foundation for continued growth of NextShip.

“I had an idea in my head of how to use the space,” Jack explains. “It was simply a process of translating the design from my head to the space. I had a few drawings, spoke to a few professionals and we were able to get 99% of everything right on the first go.”

Growth, Leadership, and Learning on the Job

For Jack, one of the biggest parts of his journey so far has been his transition into a leadership role. “I used to hate making phone calls with people I didn’t know,” he admits “but I’ve gotten much more confident. I’ve also had to learn to manage and supervise people, as that is a first for me.”

Throughout this whole process of design and early operation, Jack has learned the value of problem-solving and self-directed learning — from understanding software systems to managing trade schedules and weight limits. “There are a lot of little things you need to think about,” he says. “Heights, ramp angles, storage, etc. If one part doesn’t work, nothing does.”

The Next Chapter for NextShip

As NextShip continues to grow, Jack remains excited about what’s ahead. “I am really excited to see NextShip grow into a bustling little warehouse” he says, hoping it helps even more young people find their confidence and gain lifelong, valuable skills.

Jack may be modest about his journey so far, but his story reflects what makes NextShip what it is; a place where chance, curiosity, space to grow and community come together to create something meaningful and impactful.