Steven’s switched-on approach is powering global talent
For Steven Onn (Right), being a TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech educator and WorldSkills mentor, seeing apprentices like Tasman Henry (Left) step onto the global stage is more than a milestone. It’s a moment of immense pride.
As a dedicated mentor, Steven has played a pivotal role in guiding Tasman from the classroom to international competition, helping shape not just his technical skills, but the mindset required to succeed.
“For me, it’s incredibly rewarding to see students like Tasman realise what they’re capable of,” Steven said.
“Watching that growth, from learning the fundamentals to competing at a world-class level, is exactly why I’m so passionate about what we do at TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech.”
Steven said Tasman’s journey reflects the strength of Queensland’s vocational education and training system, where hands-on learning, industry connection and strong mentorship combine to open doors for young people.
“TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech plays a critical role in developing the next generation of skilled professionals,” he said.
“We are not just teaching a trade. We’re building confidence, resilience and giving our students the opportunity to take their skills anywhere, even onto the world stage.”
Having worked closely with Tasman throughout his WorldSkills journey, Steven said it had been an honour to support his development and witness his commitment firsthand. Tasman was also recognised as the Electrical Apprentice of the Year at the 2025 TAFE Queensland SkillsTech CSQ Apprentice Awards, a reflection of both his dedication and his growing expertise in the field.
“Tasman has always shown a willingness to learn and improve. Being part of his journey, encouraging him to take that first step, and then seeing him grow into a national-level competitor has been something I’m proud of,” he said.
Since being selected to join the Australian WorldSkills team, the Skillaroos, Steven said Tasman has continued to push himself, committing to intensive preparation through additional days at TAFE and extended on-the-job training with his employer to give himself the best possible chance of success.
As part of that preparation, Tasman recently competed at the Global Skills Challenge in Wollongong, a major international benchmarking event held ahead of the WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai. Bringing together more than 400 competitors and experts from 16 countries across 35 skill disciplines, the event replicated the pressure, technical standards and assessment conditions competitors will face on the world stage. Tasman delivered an outstanding performance, earning a Gold Medal in Industrial Control.
Steven, who attended as Australia’s International Expert and Training Manager for Industrial Control, said the result reflected Tasman’s dedication, talent and commitment to excellence.
Steven also acknowledged the broader support network that underpins success in competitions like WorldSkills, including TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech’s investment in training, mentorship and high-performance preparation.
“There’s a huge amount of work that goes on behind the scenes,” he said.
“TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech has been incredibly supportive, not only of Tasman’s development but also of educators like me in our mentoring roles. That support makes a real difference in helping our students reach their full potential.”
As Tasman prepares to represent Australia in Shanghai, Steven said the achievement reflects what can be accomplished when talent is nurtured and supported. Steven will travel alongside Tasman, not only as his mentor but also representing Australia as an expert in Industrial Control.
“These opportunities can be life-changing,” he said.
“To see one of our own step up and represent Australia with his fellow Queenslanders is something we all share in. We’re incredibly proud of Tasman and excited to see what he achieves on the world stage.”