A TAFE NSW Cooma graduate is taking advantage of jobs growth in the IT sector, combining his passion for computers with helping an organisation that supports the community.

Matt Pinner loves a challenge, so much so that he is putting his skills and experience to work building a website for local aged care and disability service provider in the Snowy Monaro region, Cooma Challenge.

Determined not to let his mild autism stop him from following his passion to work with computers, Matt enrolled at TAFE NSW Cooma in a Certificate III in Information Digital Media Technology. After graduating, he then went on to study the Certificate IV in Business.

Matt, said a few years ago he couldn’t have imagined where he would be in life now.

“I worked hard to get to where I am and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved,” Mr Pinner said.

“The Certificate IV in Business opened my eyes to how involved running a business can be. In the future I would like to start my own business helping people with their IT issues.”

Matt is an example of how gaining the qualifications required in an area of growing employment can maximise the chances of finding a job. Ongoing growth in internet connections and investment in ecommerce by businesses are forecast to be key drivers of industry expansion. [i]

TAFE NSW Digital Media Teacher and Disability Support Worker Paul McIver said the outstanding thing about Matt was, he was constantly helping other class members as well, while doing his own study.

“He’s a giving and talented soul. He’s also one of those naturally talented people who can find solutions to IT issues and that’s a skill employers look for,” Mr McIver said.

Christine Williams was working at Cooma Challenge when Matt started. She said Matt was considered a bit of a success story.

“Matt came to the Cooma Challenge Transition to Work program after finishing high school. His autism meant he had some communication issues and he wasn’t very confident,” she said.

“He enrolled in Certificate III Information, Digital Media and Technology at TAFE NSW Cooma, and with the assistance of Cooma Challenge support staff and his teachers he gained skills and confidence.

“He was offered casual work to set up computer programs for Cooma Challenge has excelled. He is a great team member and he has gained the confidence needed to assist other team members.

“Matt is the go to guy when there is any issues in IT,” she said.

For more information about the courses on offer during semester two at TAFE NSW Cooma visit www.tafenswe.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Adam Wright, TAFE NSW Media Officer, 4421 9895, mobile 0466 375 552.