GOTAFE has welcomed its first cohort of Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology students to Seymour this week.
At least 10 students began their studies at GOTAFE’s Trades Training Centre in Loco St.
This new offering enhances the accessibility of education opportunities for Seymour and surrounding communities.
GOTAFE already delivers the heavy commercial vehicle qualification to 81 students in Shepparton and Wangaratta.
The first cohort in Seymour includes a diverse range of students, from those who have completed pre-apprenticeships, school-based apprenticeships, or VET in school to those new to the industry or with limited experience eager to undertake an apprenticeship.
Mature-age student Tracey Burge entered an apprenticeship after landing a job at the School of Armour in Puckapunyal.
She began her studies at GOTAFE Shepparton but has recently transferred to Seymour.
“The new facilities are great, there is so much more space,“ she said.
“There are so many skills I am excited to learn.”
Ms Burge would typically have travelled an hour each way to get to TAFE in Shepparton but now only has to travel 20 minutes to or from TAFE.
“It is so much more accessible,” she said.
In undertaking a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology with GOTAFE, Ms Burge is learning to repair and service heavy commercial vehicles, diagnose and repair issues and gain the skills to carry out welding, thermal heating, and cutting procedures.
“The job I am in now is quite physical,” she said.
“We have sprockets that weigh 80 kilos that you have to smash with a sledgehammer.
“I’m 53 in August - it’s hard work.
“But I’ve got a lot of determination... I don’t throw the towel in very quickly.”
For more information about this program, please get in contact via 1300 GOTAFE (468 233), Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm or visit GOTAFE’s website.