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Media Release
TAFE NSW Newcastle (Tighes Hill) | 23 June 2026
Try a Trade Day sparks careers in the Hunter
‘By bringing together schools, industry, the Construction TAFE Centre of Excellence and group training organisations in the Hunter for the first time, we’re able to connect hundreds of students to in-demand careers in the region.’
Lea Sharpe, TAFE NSW Partnerships and Growth Associate Director
More than 300 high school students from across the Hunter and Central Coast explored construction-based careers as part of the inaugural Build Your Future: Try a Trade Day at TAFE NSW Newcastle (Tighes Hill).
The initiative was delivered through a collaboration between the NSW Department of Education’s Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program, TAFE NSW and the TAFE NSW Construction Centre of Excellence. It brought together students in Years 9 – 12 from 16 schools to explore a range of hands-on careers, connect with industry professionals and learn about vocational training pathways.
The initiative comes as major infrastructure and renewable energy projects across the Hunter and Central Coast are forecast to provide more than 1,400 construction and operational jobs, highlighting the growing demand for local, skilled tradespeople.
As part of the one-day event, students learnt about career pathways in high-demand trades, including plumbing, electrotechnology, carpentry, renewable energy. They also learnt about the role of women in the sector and participated in practical activities to build new skills.
Lea Sharpe, TAFE NSW Partnerships and Growth Associate Director, said the initiative highlights the importance of collaboration between education and industry in developing the region's future workforce.
"We’re delighted to welcome students to TAFE NSW Newcastle - Tighes Hill and give them the opportunity to discover the diverse and rewarding career pathways the construction sector has to offer," said Ms Sharpe.
“Bringing together schools, industry, the Construction TAFE Centre of Excellence and Group Training Organisations in the Hunter for the first time, we’re able to connect hundreds of students to in-demand careers in the region.
“Whether students choose a trade, an apprenticeship or further study, experiences like this give students a sense of what a practical career could look like and the tools to take the next step towards their dream job,” said Ms Sharpe.
NSW Department of Education Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) Officer Jenney-Lee Pye said the initiative provides students with valuable opportunities to explore in-demand vocational careers.
“Build Your Future: Try a Trade Day is a powerful initiative that helps students make informed and confident decisions about their future,” said Ms Pye.
“The program highlights industries experiencing critical skills shortages across our region. It helps students discover rewarding career pathways while supporting the future workforce needs of the Hunter and Central Coast.”
“It’s been fantastic to see so many students engaged in practical learning. The initiative has sparked curiosity and excitement among the next generation of tradespeople.”
Media contact: Holly Simpson, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.
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