Our Team
Envirotech drives our employees’ success through continually inspiring and educating each individual. By passionately supporting the growth and intellectual nourishment of our team, Envirotech will create an amiable and cohesive atmosphere for our students.
Management
Shelly Bengiat
Director & CEO
Envirotech was created to align my passion for the environment and technology together. A vision to nurture and develop technological and environmental business skills through quality and innovative education to all levels of students, primary through to higher education. My goal for our college is to create genuine partnerships between Envirotech and other international education institutes and organisations around the globe to ensure the continued growth of our brand, the Australian education system and the world’s future. We have a strong focus on delivering the highest quality courses to maximise the success of each individual, through creating systems and technology which is different to other training providers, as well as practicing sustainable operations in each of our campuses to demonstrate our passion first hand. I believe in offering all students an opportunity to thrive and provide options for those who seek knowledge and want to make a difference to the world through additional elective and business accelerator classes. This allows students to build on their own business idea and be ready to take it to the world when they graduate.
Noah Bengiat
Managing Director
As a visionary and a strategic thinker within the business, in partnership with Shelly, I have built a brand that accelerates many students’ careers and for that, I am truly proud. Shelly and I have long been passionate about creating an environment for students that encourages, supports and motives them towards their goals and dreams. Having been a part of the International Education Industry for a long time, I have the knowledge and experience to continually grow our vision for Envirotech Education. I believe that people are our biggest asset and I spend time developing genuine working relationships with our team and investing time into their development. By doing this, our students get the best living and learning experience while with us here in Australia. I believe passionately in the importance of learning and education and will continue to provide these opportunities to students from any country, building Envirotech Education as an internationally recognised provider in sustainability and technology.
Melinda De Luna
Head of Faculty & Co-CEO
I am hardworking, very motivated and enthusiastic person. Having worked for 25 years as a Senior Officer and Biologist in a company situated in a place where Sustainable Development has been in practice for the past 30 years has exposed me to the different sustainable practices, challenges and implementation. I also had the privilege of working with the different communities and it has opened my eyes in the importance of Sustainable Development and Corporate Social Responsibility which I personally believed should be practiced side by side. I have mentored and trained several groups of technical persons and administrative people. I also had the chance to work closely with the different government agencies and non-governmental organizations all with a common goal of environmental protection, preservation, rehabilitation and sustainable development. I am adapted to working in an economically challenging and fast-paced environment particularly when dealing with multiple projects and priorities at the same time.
Jennifer Ginete
Administration & Client Services Manager
I am a Filipino, a Certified Public Accountant and I will be working remotely from the Philippines with Envirotech’s Compliance Team. My expertise focuses on grants management, financial management and compliance audit.
The years of experience working with different development organizations in my country honed my skills as a professional and my work ethics. I can diligently work under pressure and can cope up with a deadline driven environment. I also relate very well to people from various cultures and socio-economic conditions. I hope to contribute to Envirotech`s mission of providing globally innovative academic space that is guided by environmental sustainability.
Gal Hirshberg
Chief Finance Officer
As a seasoned Chief Finance Officer (CFO), I bring a blend of strategic vision, financial acumen, and leadership prowess to the table. With a track record of optimizing financial performance, driving growth initiatives, and ensuring fiscal responsibility, I thrive in dynamic environments where I can leverage my expertise to navigate complex challenges and propel the organization towards its goals. My proactive approach to risk management, commitment to financial transparency, and ability to foster strong cross-functional collaborations are instrumental in shaping sustainable financial strategies that fuel success and foster long-term value creation.
Academic Team
Marine Habitat Conservation & Restoration
Dr. Steven Andrews, PhD
Lead Trainer & Academic Manager
Dr. Steven Andrews completed his PhD in Environmental Education & Ecopsychology from Curtin University and a BS in Conservation and Resource Studies from UC Berkeley. He is passionate about how we can foster a sense of connection to nature through direct experience combined with the use of art and technology in a positive way for education, connection and positive mental health.
Steven believes that developing relationships with nature is imperative for mental health as well as for positive environmental behaviour change. By combining direct experience with immersive cutting edge technologies to engage with learners, we broaden the reach of environmental education.
He has been teaching field ecology courses (terrestrial and marine) at the University of Queensland at the Moreton Bay Research Station on Stradbroke Island for the past 6 years to high school and undergraduate science camps. He loves getting the kids outdoors, out of city and connecting them to the unique environment of Minjerribah. The shifts he sees in their attitudes from the time they arrive to the time they leave is something very special.
Lyle John Cortes
Trainer & Assessor
I am a graduate of BS Biology and I have been involved in a couple of research studies. I have worked as a Biologist in a workplace where sustainable development and environment protection is practiced. I have also worked as an Assistant Manager for a wildlife conservation park. I can easily adapt to different working environments and can work well either individually or with a team.
Glenda-Manalo Cadigal, MSC
Trainer & Assessor
I'm a graduate of BS Forestry from the premier forestry school in the country, University of the Philippines in Los Baños, Laguna where my interest in mangrove forest started. My career is mostly focused on coastal resource assessment, management and enhancement focusing on mangrove, coral reefs and seagrasses. I'm a pioneer member of the marine mammal rescue society in Palawan and a marine wildlife Red List Assessor. Marine resource conservation and spatial planning have been my strength. With more than 20 years of environmental conservation and sustainable development work, I worked with various stakeholders, legislators, and communities, which allowed me to see field realities and a better grasp of the essence of true conservation work. I joined Envirotech to bring these realities and good practices from the community to a wider audience through education. I continuously aspire for learning and aim to share theories and experiences with students while improving her own capacities. Aiming to become a catalyst for influencing knowledge building, I continuou to work on what I believe in, genuine environmental community stewardship.
Iain Watt, MSC
Trainer & Assessor
Iain Watt boasts an impressive 40-year career as a Marine Environmental Management Consultant and Trainer. His vast experience spans international collaborations, cementing his reputation as a global leader in marine conservation.
Iain's extensive skill set encompasses diverse areas such as project planning and management, community capacity building, biophysical survey development, coastal zone management, and climate change adaptation. He specialises in designing artificial reefs for erosion control, wetlands and mangrove regeneration, and biodiversity conservation through sustainable marine eco-tourism.
Iain is also a seasoned diver, certified by PADI, BSAC, ADAS, and HSE, and a qualified Yacht Master Cruising Instructor. He's the founder of three successful non-governmental organizations (NGOs), including Shoals Rodrigues, Reef Conservation Mauritius, and Marine Parks Association NSW Australia.
Maricar Daquioag
Industry Expert
I’m Maricar Daquioag, my friends and work colleagues also call me, Mai. I have a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, and currently taking finishing my Masters in Ocean Sciences (Ocean Management). I have been practicing my profession as a marine biologist for almost two decades now. In fact, in March 2021, I will be celebrating my two-decade work engagement in the field of Marine Biology, specifically in integrated coastal resource management.
I have worked with various non-governmental organizations, academic research institutions, and as well as the concerned government agencies in the establishment and implementation of integrated coastal resource and habitat management in several Marine Key Biodiversity Areas (MKBA) in the Philippines and Thailand (under EarthWatch-Australia and ReefCheck). As a member of the scientific team, I helped in the conduct of ridge to reef habitat profiling and characterization. In particular, I am part of the ground survey team conducting species identification, habitat profiling and characterization for watersheds, mangroves, seagrass, and coral reefs.
Academic Team
Business Management, Innovation & Sustainability
Dr. Richard Skinner, PhD
Trainer & Assessor
Richard Skinner is a seasoned environmental professional with over two decades of dedicated service in the sector. As a qualified lecturer, he has made substantial contributions to curriculum development and course convenorship, fostering the growth of future environmental scientists. His expertise extends to climate adaptation strategies, environmental assessments, and contamination site investigations, reflecting his commitment to addressing complex challenges such as climate change.
Richard's extensive international experience spans various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. In his current capacity as an Environmental Health Officer at Queensland Health, he continues to make a positive impact. Additionally, as a Lecturer in Environmental Science and Public Health at Griffith University, he shares his wealth of knowledge and contributes to the education of the next generation of environmental professionals.
Khory Hancock
Trainer & Assessor
Khory Hancock, an environmental and sustainability expert with over 11 years of industry experience, possesses a profound understanding of safety, quality, and environmental management systems. His diverse expertise spans sectors such as mining, infrastructure, construction, carbon farming, and climate change strategies.
Khory's tenure as an Environmental Superintendent and Team Leader at Rio Tinto saw him oversee environmental compliance in Weipa mine operations, ensuring ongoing adherence to regulations and safety protocols. He successfully implemented erosion and sediment control planning and managed Weipa's inaugural fishway monitoring project. In his role as a Safety, Quality, and Environmental Advisor at Keolis Downer, Khory managed environmental performance for the Gold Coast Light Rail operation, securing operational sustainability ratings, developing climate change adaptation strategies, and advancing carbon-neutral initiatives. Previously, as a Carbon Farming Advisor at Climate Friendly, he contributed to carbon reduction efforts and land restoration projects, conducting research and assessments.
Dr. Kuntal Goswami, PhD
Trainer & Assessor
Dr Kuntal Goswami is a multi-disciplinary professional with an academic and research background. He founded the Australian Centre for Sustainable Development Research & Innovation (ACSDRI) - a Not-for-Profit Research Foundation in 2018. He publishes and co-edits THE BLUE PLANET – Magazine. He has published book, book reviews, journal articles and presented in both national & international conferences.
He teaches in the university and the vocational education sectors. His teaching and research interests are in Hospitality Management, Tourism, Accounting & Finance, Investment Analysis, Taxation, Accounting Information Systems, Marketing Management, Responsible Business Practice, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Sustainable Development Goals, Public Policy Analysis, Climate Change Policy Agenda & Solutions, Carbon Accounting, Circular Economy Business Model, and Sustainability Accounting & Reporting.
He has worked in Hospitality Industry in India and Australia in different roles such as Operation manager, Hospitality Marketing executive, F & B Floor in charge, Júnior chef, Banquet assistant, Housekeeping staff, Front Office Receptionist, and Room Reservation officer
Dr. Jayant Keskar,PhD
Trainer & Assessor
Dr. Jayant offers about 30 years of experience in
sustainable environment management with
emphasis on research and development,
innovation, project development and
implementation. He has worked on different
innovative technologies for water, wastewater,
waste and renewable energy and established a
robust professional work relationship through
effective networking and communication with
different stakeholders along with familiarity of
regulatory frameworks, equipping with a broad
vision, flexibility within vertical and horizontal
management structures for better project
outcomes.
He implements solutions that helps to achieve sustainability as well as reduce carbon
footprint. He has worked in different parts of the world including Australia, New Zealand,
India, China, Southeast Asia, Middle East as well as the Pacific Islands for the consultancy as
well as delivering lectures and conducting workshops. With his real passion for environment
and reducing climate change, he has adopted innovative approaches and technologies for
reducing carbon footprint and making better impact on social, economic and environmental
landscapes.
Daria Sobczak
Environmental Consultant
Daria, a native of Poland, has cultivated her lifelong passion for environmental sustainability, drawing inspiration from her father, an environmental engineer specialising in the public sector's water department in Poland.
In pursuit of her environmental aspirations, Daria obtained a degree in Environmental Engineering from Warsaw, Poland, and further expanded her expertise in Australia where she studied Diploma in Sustainable Operations and a Diploma in Project Management, reinforcing her commitment to sustainable practices in both daily life and business operations.
Daria's global explorations, including journeys to Malta, Spain, Israel, and in-depth analysis of Polish and Australian communities, have underscored her belief in the pivotal role of education in fostering environmental stewardship. She firmly advocates that environmental science education should commence at a young age, instilling a profound connection with nature and a deep appreciation for Earth as fundamental components of standard education. Her vision is to serve as an educator and consultant, nurturing the understanding and connection between students and children and the natural world, effectively becoming a guardian of our planet.
Cherry Jalover-Par
Assessor
I'm from the island of Palawan, Philippines. I'm a graduate in BS Environmental Science from Palawan State University. I'm a licensed Environmental Planner and diver. Being involved in the conservation and sustainable development work for more than 10 years, I've been involved with various conservation initiatives both on presentation of environmental management concepts, facilitation of conservation management planning and its field applications, as well as doing information and educational campaigns. With my passion for environmental protection, I together with my friends, organized a group of young individuals with our main goal being to promote awareness and encourage more people to take part in protecting and conserving the environment, specifically the marine ecosystem. I joined Envirotech in 2019 because I believe I've the same aspiration as Envirotech. With my experience in dealing with various stakeholders and civil society organizations, I recognized the importance of sharing ideas and to never stop learning, because only then can you achieve continuous growth not only in your career but also in your own personal development.
Academic Team
Culinary, Hospitality & Event Management
Jinlin Cai
Lead Trainer & Assessor
I am a dedicated and highly organized individual who thrives on continuous learning and the acquisition of new skills and knowledge. With a creative mindset, I enthusiastically embrace new challenges and opportunities for growth. Having amassed 15 years of invaluable experience in the hospitality industry, I am well-equipped to guide students toward higher levels of academic achievement and future career success.
My commitment extends beyond mere instruction; I am eager to actively support students in their educational journey, providing encouragement and motivation to propel them toward their goals. Moreover, I am deeply passionate about further refining my expertise within the realm of education, with a strong desire to impart my accumulated wisdom to the next generation of learners.
In essence, I am driven by a profound dedication to facilitating the personal and professional development of students, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to contribute positively to their academic and career trajectories while simultaneously enriching my own educational journey.
Laura Casarotto
Culinary Trainer & Assessor
As a seasoned Culinary Trainer & Assessor, I bring a wealth of experience and a passion for culinary arts to the table. With a robust background in both practical kitchen skills and educational instruction, I am dedicated to fostering the next generation of culinary professionals.
My journey in the culinary world has honed my expertise in a diverse range of cuisines, cooking techniques, and kitchen management practices. This hands-on experience allows me to provide invaluable insights and guidance to aspiring chefs as they navigate their own culinary paths.
In my role as a trainer and assessor, I take pride in creating dynamic and engaging learning environments that empower students to explore their creativity and refine their skills. Whether leading demonstrations, conducting assessments, or providing personalized feedback, I am committed to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence.
Renee Rae Batallones
Culinary Lead Assessor
As a dedicated Hospitality Trainer & Assessor, I bring a wealth of industry experience and a genuine passion for hospitality to my role. With a comprehensive background spanning various sectors within the hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, and event management, I am well-equipped to guide and inspire aspiring professionals.
My journey in hospitality has provided me with a deep understanding of the intricacies of guest service, operations management, and business development. I have honed my skills in areas such as customer relations, team leadership, and strategic planning, allowing me to offer valuable insights and practical knowledge to my students.
In my role as a trainer and assessor, I am committed to creating enriching learning experiences that empower individuals to excel in their careers. Whether facilitating interactive workshops, conducting assessments, or providing one-on-one coaching, I strive to cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
Bellie Grace Gomez
Hospitality Trainer & Assessor
I am a seasoned College Instructor with expertise in customizing course syllabi to meet the needs of learners, utilizing various media for presentations, fostering class engagement, planning activities, creating assessment tools, and providing necessary remediation.
In addition, I have extensive experience as an Academic Monitoring Officer, where I troubleshoot class schedules and faculty assignments, oversee policy implementation, collaborate with different departments, and assist the Academic Head with administrative tasks.
Furthermore, I have served as an Academic Online Support specialist, evaluating student submissions for the Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management at an RTO (Registered Training Organization) in Australia.
Moreover, I am a Civil Service - Professional passer and hold a Certificate in Training and Assessment for Australian Qualifications.
Khressa Bentic
Hospitality Trainer & Assessor
As a dedicated Hospitality Trainer & Assessor, I bring a wealth of industry experience and a genuine passion for hospitality to my role. With a comprehensive background spanning various sectors within the hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, and event management, I am well-equipped to guide and inspire aspiring professionals.
My journey in hospitality has provided me with a deep understanding of the intricacies of guest service, operations management, and business development. I have honed my skills in areas such as customer relations, team leadership, and strategic planning, allowing me to offer valuable insights and practical knowledge to my students.
In my role as a trainer and assessor, I am committed to creating enriching learning experiences that empower individuals to excel in their careers. Whether facilitating interactive workshops, conducting assessments, or providing one-on-one coaching, I strive to cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
Academic Operations
Melinda De Luna
Head of Faculty & Co-CEO
I am hardworking, very motivated and enthusiastic person. Having worked for 25 years as a Senior Officer and Biologist in a company situated in a place where Sustainable Development has been in practice for the past 30 years has exposed me to the different sustainable practices, challenges and implementation. I also had the privilege of working with the different communities and it has opened my eyes in the importance of Sustainable Development and Corporate Social Responsibility which I personally believed should be practiced side by side. I have mentored and trained several groups of technical persons and administrative people. I also had the chance to work closely with the different government agencies and non-governmental organizations all with a common goal of environmental protection, preservation, rehabilitation and sustainable development. I am adapted to working in an economically challenging and fast-paced environment particularly when dealing with multiple projects and priorities at the same time.
Jessa Marie Ramos
Academic and Workplacement Support
As an Academic and Work Placement Support professional, I am dedicated to fostering academic success and career readiness. With a commitment to empowering individuals, I provide guidance, resources, and mentorship to students and professionals alike. Through tailored strategies and personalized support, I strive to enhance learning experiences, facilitate skill development, and ensure smooth transitions into the workforce. My goal is to create a nurturing environment where individuals can thrive academically and professionally, equipping them with the tools and confidence to achieve their aspirations.
Compliance and Self Quality Assurance
Elena Malysheva
Compliance Officer
As an Academic Compliance Officer, I am dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity and regulatory compliance within educational institutions. With a meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of relevant policies and procedures, I ensure that all academic activities align with legal requirements and accreditation standards. My role involves conducting audits, providing guidance to faculty and staff, and implementing corrective measures when necessary to maintain adherence to regulations. By promoting transparency and accountability, I contribute to fostering a culture of academic excellence and trust within the institution.
Ruzelle Bernal
Government Reporting Officer
Throughout the entirety of my life's journey, I have steadfastly exemplified seven foundational strengths that have not only guided my personal and professional endeavors but have also underscored my commitment to excellence and continuous growth.
First and foremost, my unwavering dedication to hard work serves as a cornerstone of my character. Regardless of the task at hand, I approach it with a resolute determination to see it through to completion, going above and beyond to ensure that every endeavor is executed with precision and diligence.
Moreover, I harbor an innate desire and fervent passion to pursue excellence in all that I do. Whether it's tackling complex challenges or undertaking routine responsibilities, I am driven by an insatiable thirst for perfection, constantly striving to surpass expectations and deliver results of the highest caliber.
Administration, Client Services & Human Resources
Jennifer Ginete
Administration & Client Services Manager
I am a Filipino, a Certified Public Accountant and I will be working remotely from the Philippines with Envirotech’s Compliance Team. My expertise focuses on grants management, financial management and compliance audit. The years of experience working with different development organizations in my country honed my skills as a professional and my work ethics. I can diligently work under pressure and can cope up with a deadline driven environment. I also relate very well to people from various cultures and socio-economic conditions. I hope to contribute to Envirotech`s mission of providing globally innovative academic space that is guided by environmental sustainability.
Vanessa Lumain
Human Resources Coordinator
Employees are the moving factors for the success of any organization, it is important that every organization has a strong, reliable, and efficient Human Resource Team to support its employees. With my extensive experience in human resource management and administration, I hope to be able to support Envirotech Education achieve that goal.
ICT & Product Development
Ruzelle Bernal
ICT & Product Development Manager
Throughout the entirety of my life's journey, I have steadfastly exemplified seven foundational strengths that have not only guided my personal and professional endeavors but have also underscored my commitment to excellence and continuous growth.
First and foremost, my unwavering dedication to hard work serves as a cornerstone of my character. Regardless of the task at hand, I approach it with a resolute determination to see it through to completion, going above and beyond to ensure that every endeavor is executed with precision and diligence.
Moreover, I harbor an innate desire and fervent passion to pursue excellence in all that I do. Whether it's tackling complex challenges or undertaking routine responsibilities, I am driven by an insatiable thirst for perfection, constantly striving to surpass expectations and deliver results of the highest caliber.
Michael Baguio
IT Support General
With over 13 years of extensive and diverse work experience in the realms of Network Administration and IT Support Management, I bring a wealth of knowledge, skills, and insights to the table, poised to make a significant impact on Envirotech's journey towards achieving its organizational objectives. My career trajectory has afforded me invaluable opportunities to navigate the intricate landscapes of network infrastructure management, system administration, and technical support, equipping me with a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted challenges and demands inherent in the field.
At the core of my professional ethos lies a steadfast commitment to excellence in communication, both written and oral. I recognize the pivotal role that effective communication plays in fostering collaboration, resolving issues, and driving organizational success. By articulating complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner, I facilitate seamless dialogue across teams and departments, ensuring alignment and coherence in pursuit of shared goals.
Francisco Arriagada
ICT Customer Support Officer
I have always considered learning as the strongest motivation in life. I am fascinated by dealing with experiences that challenge myself into growing professionally and help myself to improve interpersonal skills. The knowledge acquired throughout my life experiences have put me in a position where I am able to help others using my skills and contribute to the growing of the institution. As a professional and an ex student from Envirotech I am delighted to be of service to other students in their academic performance and support the staff with any IT assistance or enquire that could present during the course of the classes.
Finance
Gal Hirshberg
Chief Finance Officer
As a seasoned Chief Finance Officer (CFO), I bring a blend of strategic vision, financial acumen, and leadership prowess to the table. With a track record of optimizing financial performance, driving growth initiatives, and ensuring fiscal responsibility, I thrive in dynamic environments where I can leverage my expertise to navigate complex challenges and propel the organization towards its goals. My proactive approach to risk management, commitment to financial transparency, and ability to foster strong cross-functional collaborations are instrumental in shaping sustainable financial strategies that fuel success and foster long-term value creation.
Jozzel Sulit
Finance Manager
Possessing more than ten years of experience of working in diverse financial positions, I have gained an extensive insight within this field. I also had the chance to be part of the Haiyan Response Team in 2013-2014. At Envirotech, I get great experience handling and monitoring financial records. I truly enjoy my role and this opportunity has helped me continue building my skills.
Antonina Plakhotnya
Finance Officer
As a Finance Officer, I am adept at navigating the intricate landscape of financial management with precision and expertise. With a keen eye for detail and a strategic mindset, I oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting to ensure fiscal health and compliance within organizations. My role involves analyzing data, identifying opportunities for cost optimization, and implementing efficient financial strategies to drive growth and sustainability. Through clear communication and collaborative teamwork, I strive to empower decision-makers with actionable insights and support organizational objectives. With a commitment to excellence and integrity, I contribute to the financial stability and success of the organization.
Marketing & Sales
Loraine Marie Calica
Graphic Designer & Marketing Coordiantor
My journey in graphic design has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a passion for pushing creative boundaries. From conceptualization to execution, I possess a keen eye for detail and a flair for translating ideas into visually compelling designs that resonate with target audiences.
Throughout my career, I have cultivated a diverse skill set encompassing a wide range of design disciplines, including branding, print collateral, digital media, and multimedia presentations. Whether crafting a brand identity from scratch or refining existing assets, I approach each project with a commitment to excellence and a dedication to delivering results that exceed expectations.
Moreover, I thrive in collaborative environments and excel at working closely with cross-functional teams to bring creative visions to life. My ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with stakeholders ensures alignment throughout the design process, resulting in cohesive and impactful visual solutions.
Sonia Alcantara
Multimedia Designer
As a versatile Multimedia Designer, I bring a dynamic blend of creativity, technical expertise, and strategic thinking to every project I undertake. With a passion for leveraging the power of multimedia to engage, inform, and inspire audiences, I thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of digital media.
Throughout my career, I have honed my skills across a diverse array of multimedia disciplines, including graphic design, animation, video production, and interactive media. From crafting visually stunning graphics to producing compelling videos and interactive experiences, I am adept at harnessing the full spectrum of multimedia tools and technologies to bring ideas to life.
What sets me apart as a Multimedia Designer is my ability to seamlessly integrate creativity with strategy. I approach each project with a keen understanding of its objectives and target audience, leveraging my creative vision to develop multimedia solutions that not only captivate viewers but also drive results.