Janet Simmons started her career in the hospitality and tourism sector working in the airline, hotel and cruise industries. After travelling the world, she decided to return to study and became a lecturer in the UK.
In 2007, Ms Simmons joined Edith Cowan University to encourage meaningful interaction between industry and students throughout their studies. In 2009, she established the student group Enactus ECU, which is a global volunteer organisation that develops entrepreneurial projects which empower the community. This opportunity not only enables students to develop innovative, meaningful projects, but it also provides essential employability skills for the students. In 2016, Enactus ECU were the winners at the Enactus Australia National Championships and represented Australia at the world cup in Toronto, Canada.
In 2022, Ms Simmons joined the innovation team at the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, where she is responsible for the Innovator of the Year Awards.
