A 10,000km road trip around the Northern Territory sparked an interest in diesel mechanics for TAFE NSW student Gabrielle Bridgeman, who is now encouraging other females to take up a trade in 2021.

The 21-year-old is now studying a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology at TAFE NSW Wetherill Park.

The NSW Government is paving the way for more women and mature workers to take up trades, with a $57.4 million commitment for a new Trades Skills Pathways Centre in the 2020-21 NSW Budget.

Gabrielle, who is employed at Tutt Bryant Equipment at South Granville, said she had always been interested in cars, but it was not until her 4WD road trip to central Australia that she found her passion.

“I’ve always been interested in understanding how things work and how pieces fit together so I’ve really excelled in this course,” Gabrielle said.

“My advice to other females interested in pursuing a career in a male-dominated trade is to dive in and follow your passion. TAFE NSW has supportive teachers that are ready to help you launch your career.”

TAFE NSW Automotive team leader, Chris Roberts, said the Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology was a nationally accredited course and was fully subsidised under JobTrainer.

“Now is the perfect time to pursue a career in automotive with the Australian automotive industry forecast to employ over 287,000 people by 2025,” Mr Roberts said.

“Students in the course will learn hands-on practical skills like repairing charging systems, starting systems and electrical systems and diagnosing brake, steering and suspension systems.”

To enrol in an automotive course in semester one, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Jessica Cortis, Media and Communications Business Partner, 0456 170 211.