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“I’ve spent more than 20 years in the printing industry, which I’ve loved, but I felt it was time for a change,” Navi said. “Aviation always interested me, and after participating in a women’s empowerment and mentoring program called Flight Deck, I was inspired to deepen my knowledge of careers in aviation.

“This course gave me a solid foundation in aviation, not just skimming the surface. We’re diving deep into the terminology and training that underpins careers at an airport. I now understand how many industries are involved in aviation, it’s truly a world of its own.

“The course opened my eyes to the diversity of roles in aviation, regardless of age or background. I’m drawn to customer service roles, and this course is a great foot in the door.”

Classmate Jyoshna Pysaka is hoping her training will lead to a job in international freight or the Australian Border Force. “The course covers a lot of aviation career options. I was amazed by how it can open so many doors to so many careers I never knew existed,” she said.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan highlighted the importance of building a pipeline of workers for the growing region.

“Western Sydney International Airport will be a game-changer for the region, and we need to make sure our local workforce is prepared. Courses like this enable Western Sydney residents to plan and train for the thousands of jobs that are coming.”

“This course is an example of how TAFE NSW is delivering practical, job-ready training to meet the future needs of Western Sydney,” Minister Whan said.

The Certificate I in Aviation is a nationally accredited qualification designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in aviation. Delivered through a mix of theory and hands-on training, the course covers skills required for airport safety, security, customer service as well as freight and baggage operations.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Aviation Ben Beesley said the course is a gateway to aviation careers and with the opening of Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) expected in the second half of 2026, it was well-timed for people living in Western Sydney.

“This program is about more than just training, it’s about opening doors to long-term careers in aviation,” Mr Beesley said.

“Students will gain essential skills and confidence to pursue roles such as airport ground crew, ramp operators, customer service assistants, and airline administration.”

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said with the airport’s opening day rapidly approaching, people across Greater Sydney are keen to learn about the many different job opportunities across the precinct.

“We’re delighted to work with TAFE NSW to help equip people in Western Sydney with practical, accessible education and training pathways that can support them to pursue rewarding jobs in aviation, in their own backyard,” he said.

“As the airport grows over the decades ahead, so too will the career opportunities so it’s a great time for people to gain new skills as we ready the airport for opening.”

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

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