A marine and shipbuilding enthusiast has been named South Metropolitan TAFE’s (SM TAFE) Trainee of the Year.
Zoe is completing a 12-month traineeship with Programmed as part of the Australian Government’s Defence Industry Pathways Program.
The program, developed in partnership with the Department of Defence and SM TAFE supported by WA’s maritime defence industry, is a taster course designed to set participants on a path to an exciting defence industry career.
Zoe is currently thriving in her traineeship with the support of her host defence industry employer BAE Systems.
In recent years, Zoe has enjoyed a full career in or around water completing qualifications in outdoor recreation, maritime operations (coxswains) as well as a rescue diving ticket. She has worked as a snorkel tour guide on Rottnest Island and deckhand on the Rottnest ferries.
Zoe was able to put her previous university design studies to good use when she completed an eight-week design internship with Austal. This confirmed her passion for the maritime construction industry; using design software and seeing it come to life on the production floor.
Zoe’s work ethic extends further than study or work, where she has dedicated countless hours to sport and sport education.
“I have been fortunate to represent Western Australia in both AFL and Rugby 7s,” Zoe said.
“As part of my sporting journey, I have given back to the community by volunteering to deliver school programs. These experiences have helped shape the person I am outside of work and study, and kept my drive and team spirit alive,” she said.
SM TAFE Executive Director Training Services and award panel chair Jonathon Maile said Zoe was an exemplary student.
“Zoe breaks moulds and has not only immersed herself in a male-dominated industry but has been successful in her personal life representing women in local sport,” he said.
“She keenly volunteers for the opportunities in front of her and is excited to continue her studies with South Metropolitan TAFE, as she works toward her goal of making a difference in the world.”
SM TAFE’s Student Awards recognise the achievements of students from across the college, including winners in the categories Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, International Student of the Year, Vocational Student of the Year, VET Secondary Student of the Year, and the Cultural Diversity Training Award.