Nineteen-year-old TAFE NSW Miller alumnus Brad Keit has always had an interest in IT but never knew it was a career path he could follow until he had the option to complete a Certificate III in Information Technology as part of his HSC.

Upon graduating, Brad went through the Sydney Water recruitment process after being recommended by TAFE NSW and 18 months later he now has a permanent role as a Product Coordinator and Planner at Sydney Water.

Brad Keit said, “Studying IT while I was doing my HSC was great as the Certificate III in Information Technology gave me exposure to a variety of areas in IT and a base understanding of the industry. I didn’t have to specialise in one area, which is a good way to help workout which aspects you like the most.”

Under the traineeship, Brad completed the Certificate IV Information Technology at TAFE NSW Miller and was able to balance both work and study thanks to the flexibility of his teachers and employer.

“TAFE NSW and Sydney Water were both really accommodating and I was able to attend classes two and a half days a week which I managed around my work commitments.”

Sue Bentley, Programs Specialist at Sydney Water said “Sydney Water has been partnering with TAFE NSW for many years to help our trainees learn and grow through training and career opportunities.”

Hilton Bailey, Brad’s Manager at Sydney Water said “Brad has made a big impression on our team from day one. His skills on the job, and the positive attitude and the behaviours he brings to work each day show experience beyond his years. He is a valued member of the team and it’s great to see him developing his skills further on the job.”

Brad added, “In my role at Sydney Water I’m gaining a lot of valuable experience across the business. I am responsible for managing the delivery and scheduling of new software and new application upgrades to the IT system. In addition to my job, for the next two months I am also covering the business analyst role while my colleague is on leave.”

Brad is enjoying working in an environment with colleagues who have a lot of industry experience and knowledge, as well as working in a fast-paced environment and the challenges that come with it.

“I love being in a full-on role and having the chance to jump into the deep end and learn.

“I’d definitely recommend doing a TVET course while doing your HSC at TAFE NSW because of the doors it opens; graduating high school with a qualification on your CV looks good to future employers. It’s also a great way to learn in a vocational environment which is very different to learning at high school.”

“TAFE NSW takes a very hands-on approach, it gives you relevant industry experience and sets you up for your career.”

To find out more about studying IT at TAFE NSW visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601

Media contact: Teresa Lane, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner 9796 5476, mobile 0412 773 887