TAFE NSW Newcastle has seen its first student graduate from the new Diploma of Aeroskills (Mechanical) course, after offering it for the first time last year.

Peter Carmichael is the first student to graduate from this course and has just received his Diploma, after 14 years working in the industry. Peter works at Pays Air Service in Scone, maintaining and repairing aircraft. He also travels to Europe for several months each year, to service aircraft used in aerial firefighting efforts.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) made changes to the pathway to become a licensed Aircraft Engineer. To acquire a B1.1 turbine-engine fixed wing aeroplane licence, engineers need to complete Diploma level training.

In response to these changes, TAFE NSW Newcastle offered the Diploma of Aeroskills (Mechanical) to ensure local aircraft engineers have access to the training they need.

Peter says TAFE NSW delivered the training in a flexible way, allowing him to balance his studies with full time work.

“My teachers were incredibly supportive, working with my schedule to offer evening sessions to ensure I could prioritise both work and study,” he said.

“Their expertise was invaluable, they have worked in the industry and were able to provide hands-on training, based on their experience.”

“Gaining this Diploma means a lot to me, both personally and professionally. It’s a huge moment, and the training I have gone through with TAFE NSW means I can continue to progress my career. The course was also fee free, which allowed me to undertake this essential training without the added financial stress. This was important for me because I have a young family.”

There is a national shortage of Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, with growth predicted at 16.7% for the five years from November 2021 to November 2026.

TAFE NSW Aviation teacher Michael Crawley says his team are also working with defence companies like BAE Systems to train their employees.

“Demand for licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineers is only going to grow, so our industry partnerships are crucial to upskilling engineers to obtain their licence, and ensure the workforce meets the CASA requirements.”

“We are always striving to find innovative training solutions to meet the needs of industry. The Aviation Hub here at TAFE NSW Newcastle is well equipped to deliver quality training to the Aircraft Engineers of the future.”

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