Phil Matthews has leaped forward in his career by studying with TAFE NSW. The well established chef has chosen to upskill with TAFE NSW by studying food science to help further his career options and enter the $390 billion food product manufacturing industry.

Phil has been working as a chef in high-end catering over the past 30 years, both in Australia and overseas. His career led him to to Europe where he worked for one of London’s most prestigious catering companies, creating masterpieces for movie stars, royalty and politicians at enviable, high-end venues.

“I had the incredible experience of catering in almost every stately home possible, including Buckingham and Windsor Palace and the Tower of London,” Phil said.

“When I came back to Australia I started working mostly on a freelance basis, and became interested in food manufacturing, innovation, research and product development.

“I decided that I wanted to start working in food manufacturing full-time for career stability and as an opportunity to grow and develop my skills.”

Phil decided to enrol in the Certificate IV in Food Science and Technology at TAFE NSW Ultimo which offered him the flexibility of part-time study at night whilst he continued to work.

Phil said “I was able to really deep dive into the science of food and am well on my way to securing my dream job. As a chef, my employment options were somewhat limited but my training means I can now apply for jobs in food science and technology, and with skills in laboratory testing, the possibilities are endless.”

“As a chef, I’ve developed an understanding of flavour and how different foods combine and work together, but my studies at TAFE NSW have given me a much deeper knowledge of the scientific basis of those interactions.”

Using the knowledge gained through his new qualification Phil has secured contract work with some of Australia’s most well known food manufacturers and is currently writing recipes for a national newspaper.

TAFE NSW offers flexible study to help students upskill and secure their dream job. To find out more about flexible study options for Semester One 2020, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Alice Dalley, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business partner, alice.dalley1@tafensw.edu.au, mobile 0402 528 210.