GOTAFE welcomed its first cohort of Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology students to Seymour last week.
Some 10 students have begun their studies at GOTAFE’s Trades Training Centre in Loco Street, Seymour.
GOTAFE delivers the heavy commercial vehicle qualification to 81 students in Shepparton and Wangaratta, with the new offering improving the accessibility of education opportunities to Seymour and surrounding communities.
The first cohort in Seymour is made up of students who have completed pre-apprenticeships, school-based apprenticeships, or VET in school, as well as those new to the industry or with limited experience, and wanting to undertake an apprenticeship.
Mature-age student Tracey Burge entered an apprenticeship after landing a job at the School of Armour in Puckapunyal.
Ms Burge began her studies at GOTAFE Shepparton but has recently transferred to Seymour, which is a much closer destination.
“The new facilities are great, there is so much more space,” she said.
“There are so many skills I am excited to learn.”
In undertaking a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology, 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.”
GOTAFE has several qualification opportunities on offer to ignite a career in the automotive industry.
