Training and career stories

“The average age of a transport operator is nearing the 47-year-old mark and rising. We must foster and harvest young talent that comes into the industry, so that we can become sustainable long term.”

“A common misconception is that working with children only offers care-based work. While that is part of it, there is a range of opportunities. All of that coming out of one sector is pretty amazing.”

“My mechanical and electrical background was perfect for clean energy. As technicians, we’re constantly reskilling and learning to keep up, which means opportunities keep coming to try new things.”

“I don’t think people realise just how big agriculture is and how many different pathways there are into it. If I have the opportunity to support our future farmers, what a joy!”

“If you are passionate about representing your industry and helping others, TAFE teaching can be a great path. I’ve got students who have been a truck driver for 30 years, or an arborist or nurse.“

“I help people with complex mental health needs who are working towards recovery. This looks different for each individual. Knowing you can be there to help them achieve their goals is so rewarding.”

“Almost every industry needs IT experts, whether they’re in health, education, business or something else. If you study any kind of IT course, you open doors to lots of different jobs.”

“There’s a real shortage of skilled trades across the board. We’re looking for people who are mechanically minded. Manufacturing is an evolving industry, you can really be whatever you want to be.”

“My diploma was a good test to see if I was cut out for a nursing career. With this profession, there’s only so much you can read in a book. I’m grateful for all the hands-on placement opportunities.”

“TAFE provided a practical pathway to get back to my education after taking time away. It’s been the foundation for my future business ventures in the service and tourism industry.”

“I never really had an interest in working outdoors, but I wanted to get involved. Finance and administration has been a great fit for me. The business side complements the outdoor farming side.”

“I’ve always enjoyed the creative side of life – art, music, literature. As a millennial, I think my generation is changing what career paths can look like, and normalising making a change.”

“I completed my Diploma of Counselling online and when I finished I was employed from then onwards. There are many more opportunities for me now, but I want to stay in a job where I’m helping people.”

”I found a supportive community with my peers and teachers. They played an important role in refining my culinary skills. Chefs are one of the most in-demand jobs, so there’s lots of opportunity.“

“I believe there will be a seismic shift in the next decade of aviation. There are a lot of opportunities across the board, from apprenticeships right through to senior leadership positions.”

“I’ve found a much better work-life balance in the construction industry. I feel like every hour that I work I’m valued. I think as a female you do bring something different to the table.”

“Our apprenticeships are naturally very practical. You’re in the salon getting first-hand experience which opens up windows of opportunity for learning, growth and making connections in the industry.”

“I work with people who have been in contact with the justice system. There are days where the life path of someone can be altered significantly. You can be there to enable a change for the better.”

“The trainers at TAFE were really supportive and able to teach in a way that suited my needs. I recommend the traineeship pathway to people with disabilities because we learn best by doing things.”

“I chose to get formal training because I knew it would open doors for me to apply for jobs. There are a lot of senior chefs looking after all the young chefs and willing to provide opportunities.“

“I really wanted a pathway where I could work while I studied, and after 6 months I was able to work in the industry. There‘s always a need for medical and patient transport services in the community.”

“I love being able to help people to get a job or into a course. Seeing someone come through our doors and being able to take them from one place in their life to the next is a great feeling.”

“I found that the skills I was learning in the course I was able to practise in the workplace. It lights up people’s faces when they see their idea come to life from the flowers they have chosen.”

“VET teachers and students are hands-on people – we’re constructors, that’s how we learn. The lessons are so concrete and real. As a young person, to find your place is a beautiful thing.”

Explore training, skills and job opportunities in your area of Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of job you could do, and what training you’ll need.

Learn about high demand industries in Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of job you could do, and what training you’ll need.