With motor mechanics expected to experience the largest employment growth in the NSW Automotive Trades and Services industry over the next three yearsi, there is no better time to consider a career in keeping the engines of Cobar running.

TAFE NSW Cobar and former Cobar High School student, Brennah Aumua, has proven she’s not afraid to get her hands dirty in a predominately male industry. After completing a Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation at TAFE NSW, Brennah has recently commenced an apprenticeship at S.C Auto Electrical.

“I always wanted to learn more about electrical technology and when there was an option to study auto electrical at TAFE NSW in Year 10 and 11, it seemed like the perfect opportunity,” Ms Aumua said.

“Studying at TAFE NSW has really helped me get to where I am today. I’ve learnt a range of hands-on skills such as how to service cars, change tyres, tool usage and WH&S procedures as well as learning on-the-job through work placements.

“Being the only girl in my TAFE NSW class and in the workplace doesn’t bother me. I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship at Sean Cox Electrical and I would encourage others to be whatever you want to be.

“The TAFE NSW teachers also provide one-on-one guidance and pass on their knowledge and experiences of the industry. I’m looking forward to learning more when I study a Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology as part of my apprenticeship.”

It’s full speed ahead for Brennah, as research recently released by the Grattan Institute indicated that a vocational educational training qualification will lead to work in a relevant field.ii

Sean, from S.C Auto Electrical, said in a short period of time Brennah has made a big impression in the workplace.

“Brennah undertook her TAFE NSW work placement with S.C Auto Electrical and when I needed to put on an apprentice she ticked all of the boxes,” Mr Cox said.

“Brennah is eager to learn, a great people person and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty.

“Completing the pre-apprenticeship course while at school has also meant that she has already developed the hands-on skills needed to hit the ground running in the workplace, which is exactly what I was looking for.”

To find out more about automotive courses available at TAFE NSW visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601 for more information.

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Media Officer, (02) 6338 2509, mobile 0427 901 515

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i Risks and rewards: when is vocational education a good alternative to higher education? The Grattan Institute, August 2019

ii TAFE Strategy West region snapshot, 2018