At just 16, Jack Roveglia is already a familiar face behind the counter at Harvey Norman Ayr. Since starting almost two years ago, he’s found more than just a job—it’s become a space where his interests and ambitions can thrive.
“I’m a salesperson,” he says, simply—but that title only scratches the surface.
Jack’s love for technology has been nurtured since young. “I’ve always liked electrical things—working with wiring and circuits. That’s what interests me,” he says. “When I saw a job ad for Harvey’s, I thought that’d be good. I could help people and be in a space I enjoy.”
Now in Year 11, Jack is planning a future in electrical engineering, a field that aligns with both his academic focus—physics, math methods, specialist maths—and his natural curiosity.
“I don’t know exactly what role I want (after university) yet,” he says. “But I know I like circuitry and the tech side of things. I figure through uni placements and experiences, I’ll work it out.”
Though the job doesn’t involve hands-on circuitry, it’s brought him closer to the world he wants to inhabit. “When customers ask something I don’t know, I’ll go search it up. It’s something else I know now,” he says. “I’ve built up my knowledge just from learning on the job.”
Raised in the Burdekin, Jack was born in Townsville but grew up between Home Hill and Brandon. He says the simplicity of the region is what he loves most. “You’ve got Townsville for the big stuff, and Ayr’s just a quiet place. Most of my schoolmates are part of the community anyway. It’s a good place to grow up.”
He’s also come to appreciate what makes customer service in a regional centre unique.
“In big stores like Townsville or Brisbane, you might never see the same person twice,” he says. “Here, we’ve got regulars. I work weekends, and there are people who come in almost every Saturday or Sunday—sometimes just for something to do.”
Those regular interactions have helped Jack build strong relationships with customers—and confidence. “I try to simplify things for people,” he says. “I like helping people understand.”
That attitude reflects a wider trait Jack sees in himself: “I’d say I’m ambitious, helpful… and maybe someone who’s not afraid to put their hand up. I like to stand up and volunteer.”
Jack’s journey is just beginning—but if the past two years are any sign, the future’s looking bright—and probably running on circuits.
Jack’s love for technology has been nurtured since young. Photo credit: Jacob Casha