We are extremely pleased to announce the appointment of Prof. Dr. Herbert (Bert) Biggs as Chief Academic Officer for PCU-WHS. With the expected expansion of educational programming at PCU-WHS, and after having served in the role of Director of Academic Operations for the past two years, Bert takes over in the CAO role from Prof. Dr. Kara Arnold, who will continue to play a key role within PCU-WHS for both degree renewal and new degree applications.
With his vast background and experience in all aspects of educational development and delivery, Bert will provide invaluable support and guidance to all team members involved in the continued evolution and successful delivery of all educational programming.
Bert is currently an Adjunct Professor and former Full Professor in the School of Psychology and Counselling at the Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia. He has been an educator and researcher at Massey University, New Zealand (where he took his PhD); Southern Cross University, NSW; Curtin University of Technology, Perth, WA; and Griffith University, Qld.
Whilst working for the Australian Government, Bert was selected for Australia’s first formal training course in Rehabilitation Counselling in 1974 where he graduated with a Certificate of Vocational Rehabilitation Counselling and later an Associate Diploma in Rehabilitation Counselling (1984). He has maintained a continuing interest in rehabilitation counselling and disability management throughout his professional career and has a strong interest in optimising workplace health and safety in industrial settings.
Bert will continue his role as PLAR Coordinator, as well as serving on the Board of Governors and Academic Council for PCU-WHS.
“I am very pleased indeed to be involved with PCU-WHS in this new role. The Mission of the University is vital in effective and comprehensive training and education in disability management and return to work both nationally and internationally. Its emerging profile in applied research augurs well for institutional collaborations and positive outcomes for existing challenges at individual and societal levels. I have been delighted with my involvement to date and I’m looking forward to extending this involvement with the support of my skilled and highly dedicated colleagues.”