Two Aboriginal women are fulfilling a growing need for more females in the refrigeration and air-conditioning trade thanks to an industry-sponsored training program at TAFE NSW. 

The Career Start in Air-conditioning & Refrigeration program allows students to develop their skills and knowledge in the trade by completing an entry-level qualification. 

Upon successful completion of the program, industry sponsor the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Building Services Foundation provided the students $600 Actrols and Airefrig tool vouchers to kick start their careers. 

Proud Nyawagi woman, Shivanhi Nair, completed a Certificate II in Engineering and said the program has given her valuable practical skills and helped her secure employment. 

“The course provided me with a range of skills such as how systems work, the use of hand and power tools, and how other trades are involved in airconditioning and refrigeration,” Shivanhi said. 

“I am now planning to continue my journey by enrolling in the Certificate III in Airconditioning and Refrigeration while working for my new employer Precise Air Group.” 

Proud Turrubul/Bundjalung woman Lena Gill, completed a Certificate II in Electrotechnology and encouraged other females to consider entering a trade. 

“I’ve always been a hands-on learner, so a career in trades is perfect for me. If other women out there are passionate about an industry, don’t let anything hold you back,” Lena said. 

TAFE NSW Team Leader of Electronic Trades and Refrigeration, Irfan Hai said there were multiple construction and infrastructure projects in the pipeline to drive a ‘tradie-led’ COVID-19 recovery, which meant the demand for airconditioning and refrigeration mechanics was surging.

“It’s a perfect time for Shivanhi and Lena to enter the industry, with the residential air-conditioning market growing steadily and the commercial refrigeration sector experiencing skills shortages,” Mr Irfan said. 

“The Career Start in Air-conditioning & Refrigeration program at TAFE NSW is a great pathway to build a long-term career in a versatile industry with interesting work, strong wages and plenty of job opportunities.” 

To assist with the recovery from the impact of COVID-19, the Australian Government is providing support to all employers who engage a new Australian Apprentice. 100,000 new apprentices and trainees across Australia will be supported by the Federal Government’s $1.2 billion Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements wage subsidy. 

For more information on studying airconditioning and refrigeration at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601. 

Media contact: Kellie Dillon, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, kellie.dillon7@tafensw.edu.au, 0408 006 866.