Media releases

Tom and Cameron Butler have used their Federation TAFE studies to transition from school straight into local jobs.
The Horsham brothers both studied a Federation TAFE Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) through the VET in Schools program at local St Brigid’s College.

Both were snapped up by the companies for whom they did work experience – Tom at Laser Electrical Horsham and Cam at Horsham Electrical Contractors.

Training and assessment for the Certificate II took place at Federation’s Wimmera Campus just minutes from where they live.

Tom, 18, and Cameron, 16, are now enrolled in the Certificate III in Electrotechnology at Federation TAFE as part of their apprenticeships.

The siblings’ story is an increasingly common one as employers in the Wimmera benefit from students learning about trade areas of expertise while still at school.

Students can then put themselves in the box seat for local jobs in their chosen field by showing their potential in work placements.

Quotes attributable to Pro Vice-Chancellor, Vocational Education and Training Federation TAFE, Liam Sloan
“Federation TAFE supporting VET in Schools helps give local employers the skilled workforce they need.”

“Having access to training and assessment at our campus in Horsham is a real advantage for students, who don’t need to travel to a larger regional centre or to metro Melbourne.”

Quotes attributable to Laser Electrical Horsham’s Fiona Jasper
“Our ongoing relationship with Federation TAFE gives us access to students who are looking for a future career in the electrical industry and allows us to hand-pick the best apprentice candidates. We believe Tom has a bright future with us.”

Quotes attributable to Horsham Electrical Contractors, Operations Manager Shane Souter
“Horsham Electrical Contractors are new to the Wimmera and surrounds, so partnering with Federation TAFE gives us the opportunity to be able to access some of the best upcoming apprentices. Cam's thirst for knowledge within the electrical field is a great asset to us.”

Quotes attributable to Tom Butler
“I really wanted to be a sparkie since I went to a career day with school and learnt some information about the trade.”

“I really enjoy working with the team at Laser. The opportunities they’ve given me have been unreal.”

Quotes attributable to Cameron Butler
“I chose Fed Uni because I knew many people that had also chosen them and had heard they have
great facilities and staff.”

“After my apprenticeship I plan to study to become an A-Grade electrician and maybe even go back
to university as a mature-age student to study electrical engineering.”