Partnership propels students toward marine careers

TAFE Queensland has partnered with the Boating Industry Association (BIA) to create stronger pathways into the marine industry for high school students.

Through this partnership, BIA will support the delivery of TAFE Queensland’s marine‑focused Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation (AUR20720) and Certificate II in Engineering Pathways (MEM20422) by providing industry‑led experiences that enhance student learning and career exploration.

These programs also act as key feeder courses, with Engineering Pathways leading into the Certificate III in Marine Craft Construction (MEM30719) apprenticeship, and Automotive Vocational Preparation providing a pathway into the Certificate III in Marine Mechanical Technology (AUR30520) apprenticeship.

Students gain essential marine safety skills through the BIA‑issued Marine Card, insights into employment opportunities, and hands‑on experience in real‑world workplaces through guided tours of the Gold Coast Marine Precinct.

Boating Industry Association CEO Andrew Fielding said the partnership will help address the challenge of finding skilled workers for the marine sector across Queensland.

“With the highest concentration of marine businesses in Australia based in the Coomera Marine Precinct, TAFE Queensland’s Marine Centre of Excellence is ideally positioned to deliver marine qualifications,” Mr Fielding said.

“As the industry continues to grow, there is a pressing need for jobs and skills across the sector.”

Located minutes from the Coomera Marine Precinct, TAFE Queensland’s Coomera marine training facility boasts world‑class, industry‑style workshops and specialised learning spaces.

This partnership gives students practical industry exposure, recognised safety credentials, and a clearer line of sight to future careers in the marine sector.