Our Story Through Time

Seven years of building financial modeling excellence across Australia

2018

The Beginning: A Vision Takes Shape

What started in a cramped Bendigo office was really about solving a problem I'd encountered countless times during my years as a financial analyst. Fresh graduates and even experienced professionals were struggling with the practical application of financial modeling—not because they lacked intelligence, but because they'd never been taught the real-world nuances that make models actually work in practice.

Founded by Wren Blackwood with a focus on bridging the gap between academic theory and industry practice
Initial program designed for small groups of 8-12 participants to ensure personalized attention
Partnership established with three major Australian financial institutions for curriculum validation
First cohort included participants from Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane who traveled to our Bendigo location

2021

Expansion and Recognition

By 2021, word had spread through professional networks across Australia. The shift to remote learning during the pandemic actually opened doors we hadn't expected—suddenly, analysts from Perth to Darwin could participate without the travel constraints. This period taught us that accessibility doesn't mean compromising quality.

Launched hybrid learning model combining in-person workshops with virtual collaboration tools
Developed specialized tracks for equity research, investment banking, and corporate finance roles
Alumni network grew to over 200 professionals across major Australian cities
Introduced advanced modules covering ESG modeling and renewable energy project finance

2024

Innovation and Industry Integration

Last year marked a significant evolution in our approach. We'd learned that the most effective learning happens when students work on actual industry challenges rather than hypothetical scenarios. Our relationships with financial institutions deepened into true partnerships where participants tackle real modeling projects under expert guidance.

Introduced project-based learning with real client engagements supervised by industry mentors
Established continuing education pathways for professionals seeking specialized expertise
Launched research initiative focusing on Australian market-specific modeling techniques
Achieved recognition from CPA Australia for professional development contributions

Where We Stand Today

The financial modeling landscape continues evolving, and so do we. What excites me most about where we are now is the community we've built—former participants regularly return as guest instructors, sharing insights from their current roles at major banks, consulting firms, and corporate treasury departments.

Looking ahead to the rest of 2025, we're preparing to launch our most ambitious program yet: a comprehensive certification pathway that combines technical modeling skills with strategic thinking and communication abilities. Because let's be honest—building accurate models is only half the battle. The real value lies in translating complex financial analysis into actionable business insights.

Our focus remains on practical application rather than theoretical perfection. Every module, every case study, every assignment is designed around scenarios our participants will actually encounter in their careers.

The People Behind the Programs

Our strength comes from combining academic rigor with real-world experience, creating an environment where learning goes beyond memorizing formulas.

Industry-Rooted Teaching

Our instructors bring direct experience from Australia's leading financial institutions. They understand the pressure of quarterly earnings calls, the complexity of merger models under tight deadlines, and the art of explaining complex valuations to non-financial stakeholders.

Continuous Learning Philosophy

We believe professional development never stops. That's why our team regularly updates curriculum based on emerging trends in Australian markets, regulatory changes, and feedback from recent program participants about challenges they're facing in their current roles.

Personalized Mentorship Approach

Every participant gets paired with a mentor who understands their specific career goals. Whether you're transitioning from audit to investment banking or moving from corporate finance to equity research, we tailor the experience to your journey.

Wren Blackwood

Founder & Lead Instructor