TAFE NSW Heavy Automotive Courses See Record Female Enrolments

TAFE NSW Wetherill Park has seen record female enrolments in Heavy Automotive courses, in its push to meet the high demand for skilled workers in the automotive industry.

Diesel Motor Mechanics have been on the Skills Priority List for the past three years, with the June 2023 report finding the estimated vacancy fill rate was particularly low for occupations in Automotive Trades.

It is a growing industry in Western Sydney, with Labour Market data showing the region’s Transport, Postal and Warehousing industry grew by 10,000 workers in the past year, with an 80 percent male workforce.

At TAFE NSW Wetherill Park, the semester one cohort enrolled in Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology induces 10 women - one of the highest ever female enrolments at the campus.

Peta Patrice is one of these learners and a first-year apprentice mechanic working at Complete Sweep.

Peta has had previous experience with heavy vehicles, but wanted to achieve her accreditation, and so began her apprenticeship at TAFE NSW. She said she has always been drawn to the practical skills needed in mechanics.

“I have always loved the hands-on nature of working with vehicles,” Peta said.

“Completing this apprenticeship at TAFE NSW is an opportunity for me to turn a passion into a career.

“It will mean I can work in an industry I’m interested in, where there is plenty of work, and can earn a good income, and stay living locally.

“Being a woman in a male-dominated industry can be daunting, but my teachers at TAFE NSW are incredibly supportive and encouraging, as is my employer.”

Workshop manager Corey Brownlow at Complete Sweep said Peta was proving to be a promising employee, eager to learn and demonstrate initiative.

“Heavy vehicles can be complex to work with and you need to have the right attitude,” Corey said.

“Peta has already shown she has the desire to learn and build her skills, which is what we look for in this industry.

“Peta is the first female employee we’ve had in the workshop.

“We’ve had several women operating our vehicles, but it’s great to have Peta here behind the scenes.

“Being an apprentice is the best way to accelerate a career in automotive and provides a real pathway to more senior positions.

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• TAFE