Parkes Shire Council is defying a national trend by investing in the skill development of its employees, rather than recruiting new talent. 

Twenty staff across Council functions will have the opportunity to complete a Diploma of Project Management at TAFE NSW this year. 

Parkes Shire Council General Manager, Kent Boyd, said “Our commitment to lifelong learning and fostering professional development ensures that staff develop the necessary skills to progress their careers and that our organisation can collectively continue to deliver progress and value to our community. 

“The hands-on practical skills and experience gained through the TAFE NSW course will prepare our staff to effectively manage and deliver projects across any sector at Council. 

"To enhance their learning, each of the participants will also be paired with a mentor from our Senior Leadership Team. The mentors will work one-on-one with participants to provide advice, professional support, and help them to apply the skills to real-world projects." 

Parkes Shire Council Destination Development Manager, Kelly Hendry said she was looking forward to enhancing her skills to assist with managing projects. 

“The fact that the TAFE NSW course includes a good practical overview, whilst allowing participants to step through actual projects from their workplace appealed to me.  

I have no doubt that the course will help ensure that the projects I manage continue to give value to our community and refine Parkes Shire as a destination of choice.” 

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Business Services, Jenelle Frewin said the delivery of the Diploma of Project Management has been customised by TAFE Enterprise to meet the needs of Parkes Shire Council.

“Students will learn through a variety of flexible methods including, face-to-face and online through connected delivery platforms, which will help them to juggle their work commitments and study. 

For more information on business and project management courses available for semester two enrolment visit, www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.  

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, (02) 6338 2509, mobile 0427 901 515.