Andrew Nichols, TAFE NSW Team Leader – Building and Construction, said, “With demand for tradespeople in our region growing and the current workforce ageing, the future looks bright for young tradies.

“The Trade Readiness Carpentry Program gives school-aged students an entry point into a rewarding industry where they learn practical skills in a workshop environment and gain confidence handling tools.

“The Program is a catalyst for sparking career conversations. With guidance from our teachers, who’ve many years of experience under their tool belts, we’re able to put them on the right path,” Mr Nichols said.

For 16-year-old, Ben Piffero, the Trade Readiness Carpentry Program has inspired him to turn his passion for woodwork into a full-time career. “I’ve always liked working with my hands and doing carpentry work with my cousin in the school holidays got me thinking about becoming a builder.

“I really enjoyed the program because I got to refine my skills, think in a completely different way and work as a team to build a storage unit.

“By speaking with my TAFE NSW teacher, I learnt more about study pathways that can get me into the building industry after I finish school. This experience has motivated me to take the next step,” Ben said.

Catherine Alderman, Career Advisor, Head Teacher Wellbeing and Engagement, Cootamundra High School, believes the Program has broken down stereotypes and connected students with hands-on careers. “The Trade Readiness Carpentry Program at TAFE NSW Cootamundra has been hugely successful in engaging our students though practical learning and problem solving.

“Building foundational skills has not only empowered a wide range of students, but it’s also provided them with new career opportunities in an industry that they now know is accessible to them,” Mrs Alderman said.

Funded by the NSW Department of Education’s Trade Readiness Program and coordinated by Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP), the initiative is designed to tackle skill shortages and encourage more young people to consider careers in construction, manufacturing, and renewable energy.

Media contact: Holly Simpson, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000

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