Twelve talented students from GOTAFE are set to demonstrate their skills at the National WorldSkills Championships in Melbourne.
The students will compete in various skills-based competitions across baking, engineering, automotive, cyber security and information technology industries.
The event will be held at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre and other Melbourne CBD locations from August 17 to 19.
To qualify, students competed in a regional competition, with some then invited to compete at the national championships.
Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology student Hayley Hopkins is among the 12 students who will compete in the national competition.
“Competing in WorldSkills has been quite a unique experience for me,” Ms Hopkins said.
“It had a lot to do with proving my worth as a female in this trade.”
While working in a male-dominant industry and being the only female in her class has been challenging, GOTAFE has provided her with a study and work environment where the teachers are supportive and classmates are always open to helping each other.
“Connecting with other people that share the same passion as you is fantastic,” she said.
“Everyone is happy to help out and you can build some really close friendships.”
After the national competition, students may even be asked to join the Skills Squad, where they will have the opportunity to travel internationally and compete against the best trades and skills talent in the world.
Over the course of three years, Kai Bucktin has studied and completed two qualifications, including a Certificate III in Information, Digital Media and Technology and Certificate IV in Cyber Security.
“When I began studying with GOTAFE I was homeless,” he said.
“I wasn’t sure whether I would be able to handle the demands of the course, along with challenges I was facing in my personal life.”
Mr Bucktin is looking forward to using skills he has learned through GOTAFE at the championships.
“I am nervous but looking forward to head to nationals,” he said.
“I think it will be a great place to enhance my skills and network with others.”
For more information regarding WorldSkills, visit www.worldskills.org.au/2023-national-championships/