Will goes from civil engineering to helicopter controls with TAFE Queensland

Instead, he built a career as a civil engineer in the construction industry, keeping flying as a serious pursuit outside of work.

In his spare time, Will trained in fixed-wing aircraft, earning his private pilot licence with smaller operators before TAFE Queensland offered the pathway.

The personal milestone was made even more special when he hired an aeroplane from Moorabbin Airport and flew to Tasmania, touring his home state with family and friends.

At the time, flying was still something he loved rather than something he imagined could become a full-time career.

That changed during the pandemic, and with more time available, Will booked an introductory helicopter flight - and the experience was immediate and decisive.

“I was hooked on helicopters instantly,” Will said.

He enrolled in the Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) (AVI50319-R44TUR) through Townsville Helicopters and TAFE Queensland, completing the R44 and AS350 turbine option available at the time.

With recognition of prior learning, he progressed quickly through the course, finishing his helicopter licence in just four months.

Wanting to broaden his skills and keep his options open, Will continued his studies and completed the Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) (AVI50219).

Training at Townsville Airport provides students like Will with access to varied airspace (controlled and non-controlled) and diverse terrain (mountains, coastlines, swamps) just minutes away, plus great weather.

During the course, they learn aerodynamics, navigation, meteorology, and advanced manoeuvres, preparing them for a Commercial Pilot Licence.

“Having all the different aircraft and instructors under one roof for both theory and practical training created a really holistic learning environment,” he said.

"Between working with the planes and helicopters in the classroom and flying each day, the course was hands-on from the start. I got a lot of opportunities to fly, understand how everything works and apply the theory first-hand."

"I found the structure of the course great; it has a perfect mix of theory and practical training. I was able to learn about various types of helicopters, so I knew what to expect when I got behind the controls for my first flight."

After completing his training, Will returned briefly to construction engineering to rebuild his savings before transitioning fully into aviation.

He went on to work in helicopter charter operations based in Townsville, gaining valuable industry experience and putting his training into practice in real-world conditions.

Nearly four years of flying on, Will returned to TAFE Queensland to continue advancing his career, completing a Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (AVI50519-PA3431) in just over a month.

He is the only student known to have completed all three aviation qualifications through TAFE Queensland.

This rare achievement reflects both his commitment and the flexibility of the training pathway.

“The instructors understand that everyone learns differently and at different speeds, and they know how to get the most out of every hour - both in the air and on the ground,” he said.

Some moments from training are unforgettable, particularly the first solo flight. In Will’s case, he experienced that milestone twice - once in a fixed-wing aircraft and once in a helicopter.

“They’re completely different experiences, but equally memorable,” he said.

Like many students, the early days were overwhelming, but confidence grew with time, repetition and a firm grounding in theory.

Will credits his engineering background and the depth of training at TAFE Queensland with helping him truly understand how aircraft operate.

“The mix of practical flying and strong theory gave me real confidence in the cockpit,” he said.

Today, Will’s role as a pilot offers constant variety. His work can take him from construction sites to resorts, islands, mountain peaks or remote runways at night, with North Queensland’s weather adding an extra layer of challenge.

“My job now is incredibly varied - no two days are ever the same,” he said.

While opportunities have emerged across different locations, particularly since completing his instrument rating, Will has chosen to prioritise lifestyle, finding work that allows him to stay local and continue doing what he loves.

“I’ve been able to build a career that gives me variety, progression and the lifestyle I want,” he said.

Looking ahead, Will remains open to where aviation may take him next.

“You never really know where you’ll end up, and that’s part of the magic. The journey itself is the most enjoyable part.”

For those considering an aviation career, Will strongly recommends studying through TAFE Queensland and training with Townsville Helicopters.

“The training opened up a lot of opportunities, and TAFE Queensland gave me the skills and confidence to turn what was once a pipe dream into a career,” concluded Will.