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    Media release

    TAFE NSW Kingswood |18 November 2025

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    TAFE NSW helps Venezuelan migrant turbocharge career

    “I always recommend the IATC to my colleagues. The education is high level, the facilitators are very knowledgeable, the class times are convenient, the prices are affordable, and the customer service is great.” Aza Rondon

    Aza Rondon, TAFE NSW graduate

    A Venezuelan migrant who struggled to find work in her field for more than four years has credited TAFE NSW with helping her job prospects “skyrocket”.

    Despite holding a Masters degree in property appraisal, Aza Rondon was forced to work as a cleaner for three years to support herself after arriving in Australia.

    After being unemployed for 18 months and determined to return to meaningful work, Ms Rondon completed five micro-credentials at TAFE NSW Institute of Applied Technology – Construction (IATC).

    Aza Rondon stands on a construction site in a winter jacket, and white hard hat, smiling at the camera.

    She also attended several site visits, participated in the Women’s Try-a-Trade Day and took part in industry mentoring sessions and networking events at IATC.

    The result? The Penrith woman recently secured a role as a cost controller at Sydney Water, saying her IATC studies were a “game-changer”.

    “Since studying at IATC, my professional opportunities and development have rocketed to a higher level,” said Ms Rondon.

    “The resources the institute offers are outstanding, and the incredible support that I have received from the team was a game-changer.

    “I always recommend the IATC to my colleagues. The education is high level, the facilitators are very knowledgeable, the class times are convenient, the prices are affordable, and the customer service is great.

    “I hope to enrol in more courses soon as they are always offering new courses related to my career and my interests.”

    Ms Rondon completed micro-credentials in Contract Administration in Construction, Commercial and Contract Management in Construction, Excel in Construction, Cost Management in Construction and Power BI Fundamentals.

    IATC offers a range of bite-sized, flexible qualifications to help existing construction professionals upskill.

    The courses are delivered in partnership with TAFE NSW, Western Sydney University and CPB Contractors, a collaborative approach that allows IATC 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.

    TAFE NSW IATC, Work Integration Specialist Jennie Payens said Ms Rondon’s journey highlighted the importance of constantly upskilling for a changing job market.

    “Aza’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of upskilling to remain competitive and relevant in the construction industry,” added Payens.

    “Aza’s new cost administration role was obtained through a combination of upskilling, expansion of professional networks, tapping into complimentary career services and her unwavering determination.

    “TAFE NSW IATC is proud to be a part of her journey.”

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

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