Christopher Kelly

Age: 25
Qualification: Diploma in Spatial Information Systems
Campus: Wollongong
Current Job title and responsibilities? Project Manager, Stormwater Asset Infrastructure Data Collection Project


Name of employer? Wollongong City Council


What were you doing before you enrolled at TAFE? Working full-time as a Tradesman Assistant, in Electrical and Air Conditioning.


Why did you decide to enrol at TAFE? I found that even after completing a Degree in Environmental Management, industry would rather invest in someone with ground experience. I had applied for many jobs but was unsuccessful for this reason. I chose to do further studies at TAFE because of the practical experience provided by the courses.


What made you decide to train for the career you have chosen? I have come to the realisation that IT is an integral part of nearly every career path. I also found that the IT based Spatial Information Systems (SIS) Course would both further my grasp of IT related work as well as supplement my Degree in Environmental Management. SIS seemed to be the pivotal dicipline in a range of industries industries i am interested in.


Do you think your training at TAFE will be a major factor in securing a (successful) career in your industry, or help you move on to further study/training? How? YES. We sat and worked with the industry software everyday. The training was also flexible enough to incorporate related spatial and IT studies such as surveying, cartography, photogrammetry, word processing and database skills. This type of coarse and study structure led me to immediately feel comfortable in the work place and enabled me to hit the ground running.


What is the most important thing that you have learnt from your training at TAFE? That the workplace isn't as daunting as one thinks. That learning and development come through practical application.


What do you enjoy most about your training at TAFE? The classes were a comfortable size. As a result close friendships were made, which have extended into the workplace. The teaching style was very professional and relaxed, with great attention being paid to each student as individuals during class time.


What is your advice to others thinking about their career & future education? Most people feel TAFE is a secondary option to University...I disagree. TAFE is a very relevant, very real start to your career. Our whole class had secured employement within the industry before graduating, giving them an instant headstart.

When choosing a career, find a balance between subjects you excel at and subjects you enjoy. You'll often find the line is blurred! Remember, there's plenty of time to find your niche...never stop learning!