Career Tasters helping Carter build confidence in his future

Having grown up helping his father, a handyman, and developing a passion for woodworking from a young age, Carter already had his sights set on a future in the trades. 

But after spending the past eight weeks participating in TAFE Queensland's (RTO 0275) Construction Trades Career Taster at the SkillsTech region’s Acacia Ridge campus, he has discovered there are even more opportunities available than he first imagined.

Designed for Queensland Year 10 students, Career Tasters give participants the opportunity to explore different industries through practical, hands-on learning while still at school. The fully funded initiative helps students build confidence, develop job-ready skills, and make informed decisions about their future study and career pathways.

"I took part in Career Tasters because I wanted to expand my knowledge about all the trades and see what I can do in the future as a job," Carter said. 

Throughout the program, Carter experienced a range of construction-related trades including carpentry, tiling, plumbing and shopfitting, providing valuable insight into industries he had not previously considered.

"I was definitely looking into carpentry, but I didn't think tiling was a job I'd like to do. After trying it at TAFE Queensland, it changed my perspective," he said.  

The practical nature of the training was a standout.

Unlike a traditional classroom environment, students spent their time working with tools, completing trade projects and learning in industry-standard facilities.

"You're using your hands a lot more. You're focused on one thing for the day, and you don't have to sit at a desk much," Carter said.

For Carter, one of the biggest benefits of the experience was learning directly from TAFE Queensland's industry-experienced teachers.

"The teachers are really good. They help you a lot and if you don't know something, you can just ask," he said.

TAFE at School Coordinator Britni Grayson said Career Tasters are helping young Queenslanders explore their interests while developing practical skills that employers value.

"Career Tasters provide students with the confidence to explore different pathways and gain real-world experience before making decisions about their future," Britni said.

"Our teachers bring extensive industry knowledge into every workshop, helping students connect classroom learning with real career opportunities."

Britni said the presence of young learners on campus is also a promising sign for Queensland's future workforce.

"Every student who walks through our doors represents a potential future tradesperson, apprentice or industry professional. Their enthusiasm and willingness to try something new is an investment in the skilled workforce Queensland will need for years to come."

The experience has given Carter greater confidence in his future, while opening his eyes to opportunities beyond carpentry alone.

And for other students considering a Career Taster?

"I loved it. Give it a go. You'll like it no matter what."

Career Tasters is a joint initiative of the Australian Government and Queensland Government.