Callahan Smith said the upcoming competitions marks the culmination of months of mentorship and hands-on practice with TAFE NSW teachers. “In 2024, I competed in the WorldSkills Regional Competition and was proud to take out first place in Light Automotive Mechanical. Now, I’m excited to step up to the national stage at the upcoming WorldSkills Australia competition,” Mr Smith said.

 

“I’m really proud to represent my TAFE NSW teachers and my employer, Simon’s Automotive. I love what I do – there’s real satisfaction in taking something that’s broken and bringing it back to life. Thanks to the skills I’ve developed through TAFE NSW, I get to work with these big lumps of steel every day and make a real difference,” he continued.

 

TAFE NSW Managing Director, Chloe Read praised the students’ dedication and talent. “These incredibly skilled Western Sydney students earned their place in the Nationals after excelling at the regional WorldSkills competition, with the ultimate goal of representing Australia on the international stage next year,” Ms Read said. “WorldSkills provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to test their limits and build their confidence, teamwork, and practical skills with the help of their teachers and mentors.”

“The competition provides a powerful platform for students like Callahan to demonstrate their capabilities in their chosen field, connect with industry, and boost their careers – and we’re proud to support them as they take this next big step.” Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said the success of TAFE NSW students at WorldSkills highlights the strength of the state’s vocational education and training system. “These students are a shining example of the incredible pipeline of talent we’re delivering through quality vocational education and training across the state,” the Minister said.