Suman is helping build a stronger aged care workforce for the Southern Downs

Suman's journey into the sector began with a desire to make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

"My passion to help people who really are struggling to do their basic activities of daily living and in need and bringing smiles in their face with my help and support, led me to work in aged and health care industry," explained Suman.

Over the years, Suman has built extensive industry experience, working as a personal support worker, assistant in nursing, and trainer specialising in manual handling and hand hygiene.

Before entering the healthcare sector, he spent more than 15 years teaching across a variety of educational settings, from primary schools through to university.

But after undertaking an individual support qualification and working in aged care, Suman became aware of the workforce challenges facing the industry.

"I became increasingly aware that there is acute staff shortage in this industry. Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit hard and fuelled the existing staff shortage,” he said.

“This led me to think about how I could contribute to address this workforce shortages by utilising my teaching and industry experience."

Driven by a desire to give back to the industry, he completed a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122) with TAFE Queensland before transitioning into a teaching role five years ago.

Since then, he has been helping students develop the practical, industry-ready skills needed for success in the workforce.

For Suman, the most rewarding part of the role is supporting students as they grow their skills and confidence.

"Transferring my skills and knowledge to enthusiastic and motivated students who want to develop their career in this industry is the most satisfying part of my role," he said.

He believes every learner is different and takes pride in tailoring his teaching approach to meet their individual needs.

"Every class and every student is different and tailoring teaching and delivery to their needs and making them job ready is another aspect of my job that makes me happy," said Suman.

At the Warwick campus, Suman spends much of his day in the classroom, preparing students for careers in aged care and health via the Certificate II in Health Support Services (HLT23221), Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) and Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (HLT33115).

His role also extends beyond teaching, with responsibilities including student support, assessment, industry consultation, and workplace visits during vocational placements.

Suman says the supportive culture at TAFE Queensland is one of the things he values most about working for the organisation.

"At TAFE Queensland, we have a great culture of helping and supporting each other. We have a great team where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas," he said.

He also appreciates the inclusive environment that benefits both staff and students.

"Whether it is student from diverse backgrounds or staff, TAFE Queensland has a safe, inclusive and supporting environment," he said.

Seeing graduates enter the workforce and make a difference in their communities is what makes Suman most proud of his work.

"I am proud to work as a teacher as I am making a positive contribution to community in addressing the workforce need for staff in the aged care and health industry," he added.

The feedback he receives from graduates and employers reinforces the impact of vocational education and training.

"Graduates often provide feedback such as, 'Suman, you were born to teach', 'I have learnt so many skills during my studies at TAFE', and 'the practicals and simulations that we did in the class are exactly what it looks like working in aged care'," he said.

For Suman, those moments reflect the value of high-quality, industry-relevant training and TAFE Queensland's commitment to producing confident, capable graduates ready to meet the needs of Queensland's communities.

"When I see my students complete their qualifications, start working in the industry, and I receive positive feedback from both employers and graduates, it makes me super-proud," he finished.