F rom career transitions to starting a paid apprenticeship, TAFE is often the best place to set the wheels in motion. This was certainly true for former roofer Quan Dinh who sought a new career that better suited his passions and his new life as a father to two young children. “I had my own business in roofing but decided to find another profession that provided more stability since I have a young family,” said Quan. Becoming a baker was an obvious choice for the baking enthusiast and his next step was to enrol in Kangan Institute’s retail baking course. In just a year, he clinched his dream job. “I’ve always loved baking – I don’t think anything can top the aroma of fresh bread. I also knew there were plenty of jobs available and working as a baker would give me plenty of time with my family after work,” he said. “A friend suggested that I try Kangan Institute and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.” A careers night at Kangan Institute was Quan’s big break – the event was set up for students to mingle with the TAFE’s vast industry contacts and explore job opportunities. “I was offered a position at the bakery at LaManna Supermarket,” he recalled. “(Kangan Institute) provided many opportunities to build our knowledge and get our faces out to industry.” Raising children while studying may have its challenges, but clearly not mission impossible for the 24-year-old. “My children are five and one years old. Raising them while studying was probably not the most ideal but I pushed through it and managed my time well. It might sound daunting but I managed to succeed,” said Quan who also participated in various competitions as a student baker including representing Victoria at the 2018 WorldSkills Australia championships. Earning while learning is another option at TAFEs like Kangan Institute. Many have achieved their ideal jobs by starting with a pre-apprenticeship and progressing into a paid role. “Kangan Institute got me a work placement at Porsche Centre Melbourne during my pre-apprenticeship. I worked hard and was offered a full apprenticeship right after,” said service and repair apprentice Niven Tsing. “I’ve recently started working on classic cars, which is great because I hope to become a classic car technician in the future.” Niven said TAFE education played an instrumental role in building his career. “While studying at Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence we trained with actual parts from real brands and learnt from highly experienced teachers,” he said. “I wouldn’t be where I am without my education at Kangan Institute; it’s really opened doors for me.” Backed by the Victorian Government’s Skills First program, Kangan Institute is one of Victoria’s largest TAFE providers offering individuals an opportunity to access government subsidised quality training. Courses range from automotive and trades to health and community services, animals, plants and sciences, hospitality, business and fashion, with an emphasis on industry partnerships to link students to job outcomes. Programs are delivered at Kangan Institute campuses in Broadmeadows, Docklands, Richmond, Moonee Ponds and Essendon. To find out more visit kangan.edu.au. Making a life-changing move EVENT GUIDE MELBOURNE CAREER EXPO 3