Leaving school at 16 to pursue a trade was the best thing I’ve ever done, says Spring Farm resident Cameron Tregoning.
“I’ve always enjoyed practical, hands-on learning, and I found school didn’t really offer me that,” says the 23 year old.
But Cameron hasn’t just proved that the HSC is not the only path to success.
He has pursued a dual trade with TAFE NSW as part of his career plan to land work in the high growth mining industry as a fly-in-fly-out worker.
Australia’s mining industry is facing a strong skills demand, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics expecting an additional 21,700 workers will be required by 2025.
A 2022 Deloitte report into the top 10 issues shaping the future of mining, suggested that: “As organisations introduce new technologies, roles are evolving rapidly and new jobs previously unassociated with mining are emerging.”
Cameron is currently studying a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician and Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade, while working as a fitter machinist at Western Sydney based engineering firm Baker & Provan.
“I enrolled in the Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician and Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade as I wanted to kickstart my career,’’ he says.
“The apprenticeship has allowed me to earn while I learn, and the personalised support I receive from my teachers has really set me up for success.
“Having a dual trade and diverse range of skills will be a huge boost to my future career, and I’m looking forward to hopefully joining the mining industry as a fly-in-fly-out worker one day.”
TAFE NSW engineering trades teacher Simon Robinson said students like Cameron are a prime example of the opportunities TAFE NSW provides for those looking to gain hands-on skills.
“The nationally-recognised Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade provides students with the problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude they need to join in-demand industries like power generation, mechanical engineering, and oil and gas drilling,” Mr Robinson said.
“Having a dual trade can be a huge advantage in the workplace and open up a range of job opportunities, with employers increasingly looking for multiskilled workers to grow their businesses.”
