How Matilda went from holding the torch to holding the tools
For Matilda Stanfield, a career in the trades was never about breaking stereotypes. It was about backing herself.
Growing up around mechanically-minded family members, Matilda always knew she was destined for hands-on work.
"I've always grown up around mechanical people," she said.
"My older brother came through TAFE Queensland and got his qualifications, and growing up, I was always the one holding the torch for my dad and brother while they worked on the cars."
While some students thrive in a traditional classroom environment, Matilda knew early on that path wasn't for her.
"I wasn't really a sit-at-the-desk kind of person. I had to go and do something."
After finishing Year 12, she secured an apprenticeship with Glasshouse Country Coaches and is now completing her Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31120) apprenticeship through TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech while working on buses across South East Queensland.
Her TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech journey actually began before she left school. Through a Career Taster experience in the trades at the Bracken Ridge campus, Matilda attended training one day a week during Year 12, gaining valuable skills and credits that accelerated her apprenticeship.
"That one day a week I did in my last year of high school knocked about six months off my apprenticeship because of the modules I'd already completed," she said.
The experience also helped her discover a passion for heavy vehicles.
"I could look across the building and see all the trucks and what they were doing, and I thought, 'I think I want to be on that side'."
For Matilda, that's the value of learning at TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech.
"It shows you what's available, but also helps you figure out what you actually want to do."
Studying at Bracken Ridge campus has also made balancing work and training easier, especially since the campus now delivers Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology qualification in full. This means there is no longer a need for those cross-river trips.
"It's only about 35 minutes for me, and that's a lot better than having to travel much further away like Acacia Ridge," she said.
Beyond convenience, it's the campus atmosphere that stands out.
"I feel comfortable at this campus. You can walk up the stairs and grab a coffee or a sandwich. It's got a really good community feel."
Surrounded by automotive, plumbing, carpentry and other trades, Matilda enjoys being part of a broader trades community.
"It's good because you come in and meet new people all the time. You get to hear what their experiences are and what their job sites are like."
Like many apprentices, Matilda was nervous before her first on-campus training session, but those concerns quickly faded.
"The teachers are really nice, and I've found the support from teachers and TAFE Queensland really good."
What stands out most is the real-world experience her teachers bring to the workshop.
"Some of them have been in the industry for more than 20 years. You're definitely learning something from them all the time."
Working in a traditionally male-dominated industry comes with challenges, but Matilda hopes more young women feel confident pursuing a trade career.
"It's not as scary as everyone makes it out to be. I found a really good workplace, and everyone has been really friendly," she said.
Her advice is simple: "Don't be scared. Don't be afraid. If you want to get it done, just get in, make friends, get your work done and get your qualification."
She also encourages students to take advantage of opportunities to explore different trades before choosing a career path.
"Jump at any opportunity you can get, even if it's something you're not sure you want to do."
Looking to the future, Matilda sees exciting opportunities ahead, particularly as Queensland prepares for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
"They're going to need transport. They're going to need to get from A to B," she said.
As someone who helps maintain buses every day, she understands the important role skilled tradespeople will play in keeping Queensland moving.
"A lot of that could be buses. So, keeping all the buses maintained and running will be really important."
One day, Matilda hopes to own her own heavy vehicle workshop on the Sunshine Coast. Until then, she's focused on gaining experience, learning from industry experts, and making the most of every opportunity.
"Once you're qualified, you can do whatever you want."