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Partnership brings the classroom to industry
High school students will swap textbooks for toolkits before they even graduate - thanks to a partnership between PWR Advanced Cooling Technology and TAFE Queensland on the Gold Coast.
The partnership will deliver the Certificate II in Engineering Pathways (MEM20422) on-site at PWR’s state-of-the-art Stapylton facility, offering students hands-on training in a real-world engineering environment.
Morgan-Rose Alexander, Global Talent Acquisition Lead at PWR, said the move is more than just skills and training - it’s about shaping the future workforce.
“PWR is passionate about developing the next generation of engineering talent,” Morgan said.
“By delivering the program on-site, we can align education with industry needs and support our local community in creating real career pathways.”
One day a week over four school terms, students will get access to advanced CNC machinery, additive manufacturing tools, and precision fabrication equipment - technology rarely seen by school-aged learners.
But the real game-changer is the connection to industry professionals and the exposure to the engineering world.
“They’ll work alongside experienced engineers, tradespeople and technicians,” Morgan said.
“That kind of mentorship helps students connect theory with practice, builds their confidence, and fosters the curiosity and work ethic we value.”
Beyond the certificate, the program opens doors to apprenticeships, further study, and potential employment at PWR.
“We see this as a long-term investment in our future workforce,” said Morgan.
“Students who show commitment and aptitude could be invited to continue with apprenticeships or entry-level roles here at PWR.”
The initiative is part of TAFE Queensland’s TAFE at School program, which gives high school students the chance to earn nationally recognised qualifications while completing their secondary education.
Karen Dickinson, General Manager of TAFE Queensland Gold Coast, said the program represents the future of vocational training.
“This partnership is a great example of how industry and education can work hand-in-hand to deliver career-focused outcomes,” she said.
“Students don’t just learn, they experience what a future in engineering actually looks like, inside one of Australia’s leading engineering businesses.”
With strong demand for skilled engineers and tradespeople across the country, programs like this aim to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace, giving students a powerful head start in one of Australia's most dynamic industries.