Eli builds skills, confidence and future careers

When Eli Dawson began a painting and decorating apprenticeship in 2008, he was simply trying to get his foot in the door of a trade.

More than a decade later, that decision led him to the classroom, where he is now helping the next generation of tradies build their skills and confidence.

“While painting wasn’t my first choice, I fell in love with the trade soon after starting,” said Eli.

“I took great pride in my work which led me to run a small painting business for many years undertaking repaints, new construction and commercial fit-outs across the Gold Coast and Brisbane.”

Looking for a change and a way to share his passion for the trade, Eli joined TAFE Queensland in 2019 as a painting and decorating teacher for the Gold Coast region.

He has since progressed to Education Team Leader at TAFE Queensland’s Ashmore campus, working across the construction trade teams to support teachers and help students get the most from their training.

For Eli, the most rewarding parts of teaching are often the small moments in the classroom.

“I really enjoy the little wins that we as educators get to experience in the classroom. At times it might be reengaging a troubled learner, it could be connecting theory with practice or empowering a student to do something they didn’t think they could.”

Eli also wants apprentices to understand the opportunities and professional connections available throughout their careers.

“Apprentices studying at TAFE Queensland finish with much more than a trade qualification, they complete with the skills and knowledge to excel in their industry, a clear understanding of career growth following the certificate III, and lifelong connection with fellow trade professionals and industry bodies.”

Supporting apprentices also means understanding the financial, housing, workplace and wellbeing pressures they can face throughout their training.

This is one of the reasons Eli sees value in initiatives such as the Breakers Program, which was recently launched by Carpentry Australia at Ashmore campus.

The program provides participating carpentry apprentices with mentoring, scheduled check-ins, professional development and opportunities to connect with others in their industry.

“Apprentice retention is a nationwide problem and initiatives such as Breakers will go a long way in ensuring those within the program stay connected.”

“The hope is that through scheduled check-ins, supportive professional development opportunities, and creating a platform that young professionals can connect over their shared industry, apprentices are less likely to fall out of love with their industry.”

For Eli, strong relationships with employers and industry organisations are central to preparing apprentices for the workforce.

“These connections are TAFE Queensland’s lifeblood. Through strong connections with industry we ensure that we meet our key obligation of delivering training designed by industry for industry.”

Eli’s work supporting teachers and students was recently recognised when he received the Emerging Leader – Education award.

“The things I do for the team and the work I put in is never for any sort of recognition, it’s just doing what the team needs at that moment in time.”

For Eli, leadership comes down to giving his team what they need to provide the best possible training experience.

“I will always do everything within my control to ensure my team has the tools required to provide learners the very best experience at TAFE Queensland.”

Eli Dawson with his Emerging Leader – Education award.

Eli demonstrating a nail gun at the Breakers Program launch at Ashmore campus.