Congratulations Carly Brown, 2024 Vocational Student of the Year
Northern College of Arts and Technology, Certificate II in Electrotechnology
A childhood fascination with trains sparked Carly’s journey into a comprehensive vocational, education and training pathway as part of her Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). It began with a Certificate II Engineering where she learned the fundamentals of drawing and reading engineering diagrams. Fascinated by all things mechanical, Carly went on to expand her knowledge and completed a Certificate II in Electrotechnology in 2023 hoping one day to work on infrastructure projects.
Driven by a desire to explore different trades, Carly steered a versatile course. Her current focus is on certificates in plumbing and automotive, however, her ultimate goal is to secure an electrical apprenticeship and become an A Grade electrician.
Carly also aims to challenge gender stereotypes and promote diversity in trades. She’s tireless in her role as ambassador for the Young Women in Trades & Technology group. With unwavering determination and a commitment to inclusivity, Carly seizes every opportunity to gain experience that prepares her for the workforce.
Watch Carly’s acceptance speech here.
Congratulations Thomas Patterson
Thomas was awarded Victorian VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year at the Victorian Training Awards earlier this year. On Friday 17 November Thomas was awarded Runner-up at the Australian Training Awards held in Tasmania.
Thomas teaches the Certificate II in Building and Construction (Carpentry) Pre-apprenticeship at the Outer Northern Trade Training Centre.
After 15 years of working in the construction industry as a carpenter and licenced builder, Thomas leapt into VET teaching to share his knowledge and skills. Teaching at Outer Northern Trade Training Centre, he delivers the Certificate II in Building and Construction Pre-apprenticeship (Carpentry) and the Certificate I Construction Pathways.
To prepare students more thoroughly for the workforce, Thomas implemented real-world tasks. Small-scale models were replaced with house-sized wall frames, roof structures and sub-floors, which rapidly escalated their skills. Thomas collaborated with plumbing and electrical trade colleagues to apply the same approach into their trades, resulting in a rapid improvement in student output.