Zac lands his dream career coding robots

Completing the Certificate II in Autonomous Technologies (10935NAT) in 2025, Zac is now completing a Certificate III in Information Technology (ICT30120), building on the hands-on robotics and coding skills that helped launch his career in automation.

“At 18 years old, I’m already in my dream job with Meditech Pharmacy Management Solutions, and I absolutely love automation. Whether it’s factory robots or storage robots like what I’m doing now, I adore it,” Zac said.

Meditech develops, manufactures and distributes bespoke pharmacy robot systems that can stretch up to 10 metres long and use robotic arms and automated conveyors to store, retrieve, and dispense medication.

“My job is to help build massive robots that store medicines. They have a robotic arm that auto-loads and grabs stock, stores it, and then dispenses it automatically through one of the exits,” he said.

Despite only being in the role for a few days, one of Zac’s first jobs was to help build and install a complete pharmacy robot from start to finish.

“We unload the truck, build the framework and external structure, install all the internal systems and software, then train the pharmacy staff on how to use it. I learned so much in the two days I was on site,” he said.

Zac said the Certificate II in Autonomous Technologies (10935NAT) gave him the practical experience and confidence needed to break into the industry.

During the course, Zac and his classmates designed and programmed robots using MicroMelon Robotics technology, learning foundational skills in coding, networking, automation, and problem-solving.

“We had to code the robot so it could follow a maze and eventually find its own way through. I loved the teaching style and how the course was set out. We started with safety and then moved into the practical side of things.”

“Without TAFE, I wouldn’t have the autonomous technologies certificate behind me and the knowledge I gained from it, and I probably wouldn’t have gotten this job,” he said.

TAFE Queensland’s hands-on learning environment was a major drawcard for Zac, who preferred practical training over traditional classroom study.

“I knew TAFE was more hands-on and that I wouldn’t just be sitting in a classroom doing theory all day. With TAFE, you do the theory, and then you go and do it in a lab or classroom. That’s TAFE Queensland’s biggest strength,” he said.

Zac also praised the supportive teachers and industry-standard facilities at TAFE Queensland’s South Bank campus.

“The facilities are 10 out of 10. The technology and the equipment we use are great, and the teachers have loads of knowledge and experience, and they constantly check in and support us.”

Through his Certificate III in Information Technology (ICT30120) studies, Zac is strengthening his software and networking knowledge to support his growing robotics career.

“The IT course backs everything up. There’s software involved in the robots before they can work and move things around, so learning those IT skills really helps.”

Looking ahead, Zac plans to stay in the robotics industry long-term and continue building his career in automation technology.

For students considering a future in robotics or autonomous technologies, Zac encouraged them to pursue hands-on training and industry experience.

“The more practical experience you have working with robots, the better. With TAFE Queensland, you get both the theory and the practical skills, so it’s a win-win,” concluded Zac.