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He said many of his students already have a strong connection to the marine environment and can see the opportunities close to home.

“Now is a good time to take advantage of online and face-to-face training to earn qualifications for employment opportunities across the maritime industry,” Mr Hunt said.

“Maritime plays an important role in the national supply chain and in many coastal communities. Skilled workers are needed to help keep those industries operating safely and efficiently.

“One industry drawcard is the variety it offers. From charter tourism to marine engineering, the industry offers so many different roles. These qualifications can also help people find work around the world,” he said.

A former student of Mr Hunt, Ella, credits her father’s interest in boats for sparking a passion for all things marine. This led the 21-year-old to enrol in maritime operations at TAFE NSW.

"After school, I wasn't sure what career I wanted, but I knew it wasn't going to be a desk job," Ella said.

"I took a gap year, did my General Purpose Hand course so I could work on boats in Jervis Bay, and it’s paid off. That experience helped me decide maritime is the industry for me."

Ella then completed coxswain training, developing skills in navigation, skippering, radar operations and marine engineering. She went on to complete a marine engine driver qualification and is now studying a Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up top 24 metres Near Coastal) online through TAFE NSW.

With women making up only five per cent of the maritime workforce, Ella is proud to be the first female mariner to work with Bollinger Marine Group in Jervis Bay.

“I’m enjoying my work, there’s great variety and I’m always learning. Being the only woman isn’t an issue, it’s a very supportive environment. I’d encourage more women into maritime, it’s fantastic.”

Bollinger Marine Group owner Mitchell Bollinger said Ella was a great fit for the business, which builds boats in Newcastle and provides marine support and towage services out of Jervis Bay.

“The industry has always needed more people, and Ella is building a strong career in the industry. She’s very capable and is involved in the deck-work and driving vessels. The variety of work is a drawcard, from ocean towage up the coast, to projects in Botany Bay and on the South Coast.

“For me, it’s about offering younger people opportunities and building a team with different levels of experience,” he said.

Media contact: Adam Wright, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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