A Coffs Harbour local has begun his pilot studies at University, after a TAFE NSW high school program sparked his passion for aviation.
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Eighteen-year-old Lachlan Walmsley studied a Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot) as a TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) student in year 11. TVET courses are designed to help high school students build practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, to ignite their interest in specific industries, and encourage them on to further study.

By engaging school aged students, TAFE NSW is striving to meet workforce demand by skilling school students, giving them a head start by the time they finish year 12, as they will already hold vocational qualifications.

Aeroplane Pilots are listed as being under a national shortage by the Skills Priority List. A report released by Boeing in 2023 says long-term demand for newly qualified aviation personnel remains strong, as 649,000 new pilots will be needed to fly and maintain the global commercial fleet over the next 20 years.

During Lachlan’s TAFE NSW study, he expressed to his teacher that he was going to pursue a career in aviation when he finished school, but he wasn’t sure which pathway to take.

Lachlan’s teacher advised him to aim high, so he could reach his full potential. Lachlan has now gone on to study a Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot) at the University of South Australia.

“The TVET course through TAFE NSW was a great introduction, and confirmed for me that I wanted a career in the aviation industry,’ he said.

“The course gave me a foot in the door towards making some industry connections, and I am already using the skills I learned, in my first year of University. It’s incredible to think this all started when I was at school, contemplating my options.”

“Becoming a pilot is something I am going to have to work hard to achieve, but it’s a privilege to be here, and I feel so fortunate for this opportunity. I am excited to get in the plane and see more of the world.”

University of South Australia Aviation Lecturer Dr Danny Deng says Lachlan is excelling in his studies, having come to the course with a solid knowledge base.

“Lachlan has achieved a high distinction in at least one of his courses - Introduction to Aviation Management - placing him within the top 15% of students in the class,” he said.

“Not only does he excel in acquiring and applying knowledge, but also demonstrates strong leadership during group activities and assignments. He served as a team leader in his group, and has supported his teammates during tutorial classes, leading the group to success.”

Media contact: Lauren McAllister, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, MediaRelease@tafensw.edu.au, 02 7920 5000