Multi-skilling is now the key to successful career path

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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.”

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