Our People
Carmel Crouch – Managing Director, STEPS Group Australia
Carmel Crouch is the founder of STEPS Pathways College and has held a leading role with STEPS for more than 30 years. Carmel is an advocate for disability rights and is a prominent figure in the disability, education, and not-for-profit sector. For the past few years, Carmel has sat as the Chair of Amplify Alliance Australia, helping to improve training and job opportunities for all Australians.
As a parent of a child with a disability, Carmel’s motivation has always been to provide her son, and others like him, with the freedom and choices in life assumed by all young people. To undertake meaningful work, provide a valuable contribution to the community and be valued, and to live independently.
Her motivation has shaped STEPS to become a diverse organisation dedicated to making a difference by providing opportunities for individuals, with an emphasis on skilling people with the knowledge and tools that allow them to successfully pave their own path in life. STEPS Pathways College is a long-held dream of Carmel’s to provide young people with a disability with a true pathway to independence.
Stephanie Patey – STEPS Pathways Boarding College Principal
As the Executive Principal of STEPS Pathways College, Stephanie Patey has the unique honour of leading Australia’s first and only educational institution offering a live-and-learn setting for young adults with a disability and autism. She brings an empathetic leadership style, enhancing strategic planning and program implementation to achieve a high level of performance against the college’s business plans.
Stephanie has a strong belief in the potential of every student, creating a learning environment that is as nurturing as it is empowering. Her commitment to solutions-focused approaches and continuous quality improvement ensures the seamless delivery of the College’s programs, all while fostering trust in the STEPS brand within the community.
Under her guidance, the College not only achieves its performance objectives but also cultivates a sense of belonging amongst students and staff alike. Her leadership has been instrumental in building a team that consistently delivers on operational requirements while maintaining a steadfast focus on student wellbeing.
Stephanie often remarks, “We believe our role is to show our students what’s possible and provide opportunities that help them find and fulfill their potential.” This sentiment is at the heart of her leadership philosophy and is evident in her dedication to the College. Stephanie Patey’s passion, commitment, and influential role make her an integral part of the STEPS Pathways College community, leading with a vision for an inclusive and empowering future.
Tiah Hardy – Head of Operations, STEPS Social Businesses
Tiah Hardy leads operations across the STEPS Pathways Day College with a focus on delivering inclusive, skill-building programs that empower students to live independently and thrive in their communities.
As Head of Operations for the STEPS Garden Centre and STEPS Café on George curriculum streams, Tiah plays a pivotal role in designing and implementing programs that blend practical learning with personal development.
Tiah joined STEPS Pathways College three years ago, bringing a strong background in operational leadership and a passion for creating meaningful opportunities for young adults with a disability and autism.
Since then, Tiah has been instrumental in shaping core programs and support frameworks. Her leadership is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by our students. Tiah’s work reflects the College’s mission to create brighter futures through education, support, and community connection.
Karen Caldwell – Head of Curriculum and Training, STEPS Pathways Boarding College
Karen Caldwell is an experienced and passionate educational leader with over 30 years in the education sector. As Head of Curriculum and Training at STEPS Pathways College, she leads a dedicated team of trainers and resource developers, working collaboratively to create a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.
Karen joined the STEPS team five years ago as Manager of the STEPS Pathways College Day Program and quickly became a key driver of curriculum innovation, playing a central role in designing and delivering online training during COVID. She went on to become Pathways Training Principal before stepping into her current role, where she oversees all curriculum and training initiatives across the College.
With a strong belief in the power of education to transform lives, Karen focuses on empowering students to take ownership of their learning. She is committed to building a learning culture that supports both personal and professional development.
Brooke McDowell – Head of Operations, STEPS Pathways Boarding College
Brooke McDowell is a dedicated leader with a strong commitment to our students and their positive journeys through STEPS Pathways College. As Head of Operations for the Boarding Program, Brooke oversees the day-to-day logistics of student tenancy, program delivery, and support services.
Since joining the team, Brooke has played a key role in updating and implementing policies and procedures that promote safety and consistency for our students. She works closely with Team Leaders and Trainers to coordinate individual student needs for personalised and timely support. Brooke is also instrumental in developing meaningful program activities that enrich the student experience.
Passionate about the mission and values of STEPS, Brooke is proud to witness the lifechanging impact the Boarding College has on students. She is a strong advocate for expanding the program, believing in its potential to support young adults with a disability and autism across Australia.
