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    Media release

    TAFE NSW | 2 February 2026

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    How TAFE NSW helped Vishu’s career get back on track

    “I had the opportunity to learn directly from industry experts who shared their real‑world experience working on major infrastructure projects such as undersea tunnelling, airports, and large commercial buildings.”

    Vishu Kaushik, IATC graduate

    A father-of-two who arrived in Australia seeking a better life has secured work in his chosen field with the help of TAFE NSW.

    Vishu Kaushik emigrated to Australia from India in 2016 in search of a better life. Despite 11 years’ experience as a mechanical engineer, he initially worked outside his profession at a Caltex service station to support his young family.

    “It was a difficult time. I left my country and was starting from zero and I endlessly applied for jobs in my field,” Mr Kaushik said.

    “I was even going door to door with my resume but was getting lots of knockbacks.”

    Enter the Institute of Applied Technology – Construction (IATC), delivered by TAFE NSW, universities, and industry partners.

    Vishu Kaushik stands facing the camera, wearing a button-up shirt and leaning his elbow on a stand-up office desk. There are three monitors on the desk showing technical images of a large construction project.

    After a stint in a manufacturing job, the Oran Park father turned to IATC’s popular microcredentials. These bite-sized, flexible qualifications are aimed at helping existing construction professionals upskill.

    Mr Kaushik completed two short courses – Project Management in Construction and BIM Modelling in Construction – and participated in a number of IATC networking events with major employers.

    It paid off when he recently secured a mechanical draftsperson role with Jennings Plumbing in North Sydney.

    “The IATC courses not only helped me develop strong technical skills in construction, but also kept me motivated by allowing me to learn from one of the best institutions in the field,” he said.

    “I had the opportunity to learn directly from industry experts who shared their real‑world experience working on major infrastructure projects such as undersea tunnelling, airports, and large commercial buildings.

    “This exposure broadened my understanding of the industry and significantly boosted my confidence during the interview.”

    As part of his new role, Mr Kaushik is working on a number of challenging projects, including the $2 billion Harbourside redevelopment.

    IATC Work Integration Specialist Georgie Nash said Mr Kaushik’s journey highlighted the importance of constantly upskilling for a changing job market.

    “Vishu is a powerful reminder of how important upskilling is to remain competitive and relevant in the construction industry,” Ms Nash said.

    “His new role was obtained through a combination of upskilling, expansion of professional networks, tapping into complementary career services and his unwavering determination.”

    IATC courses are delivered in a collaborative approach that allows it to regularly take the pulse of industry and deliver quality education.

    Based in Kingswood but with many of its courses offered virtually, the IATC has a focus on Project Management, Leadership, and Digital Construction Skills.

    Media contact: Dan Johns, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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