NACC180279 - Career Taster: Automation and Electronic Technologies

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Duration
Please refer to Course Structure below.
Location
Mackay and Rockhampton
Next intake
November, 2026
Study mode
On Campus
Overview
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OverviewStructure & AvailabilityRequirementsFees & ScholarshipsHow to Apply
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Overview

Discover the fast‑growing world of robotics, automation and intelligent systems. This Career Taster introduces students to the core concepts behind autonomous technologies and electronic control systems, combining theory with hands‑on activities to demonstrate how modern automated devices operate. Across this multi‑day program, students will learn about sensors, processors, inputs and outputs, explore real examples of industrial and mobile automation, and gain experience assembling and programming a simple robotic vehicle. The taster provides an engaging first look at the systems that power robotics, drones, automated machinery and smart technologies. This course invites students to explore the emerging careers and pathways available in automation and intelligent systems.



Definitions of our ACC, NACC and PDC short course codes.

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Career Opportunities

Participants will engage with programmable systems and electronic components, including circuit building and Arduino programming.  These skills are central to careers in robotics, industrial automation, and electronics repair, but also intersect with fields such as defence technology, smart agriculture, and digital art installations. This Taster encourages students to think critically and creatively about how programmable systems shape modern industries, offering a launchpad for future exploration in STEM and innovation-focused sectors. 

Structure & Availability

Career Taster

Duration:
Full Time Duration
5 days

This non-accredited Career Taster program is delivered face-to-face over five consecutive days at your enrolled CQUniversity campus.

Across the program, you’ll take part in practical, supervised activities that help you explore key concepts such as electronic components, system behaviour, basic programming logic and how technology responds to different inputs. You’ll experiment with beginner‑friendly tools and tech platforms, work through guided tasks, and see how ideas used in robotics, sensors and automation apply to real‑world industries.

Units

Unit CodeUnit Name
NUCRT279AWHS and Introduction to Automation and Electronic Technologies
NUCRT279BProgrammable Systems & Electronic Components

Career Taster

IntakeLocations
July, 2026Mackay, Rockhampton
November, 2026Mackay, Rockhampton

For course commencement dates, please review the Career Tasters Delivery Schedule.

This course has no residential schools.

Work-integrated learning does not apply to this course.

Requirements

Enrolment in this course is subject to meeting the funding eligibility criteria for Career Tasters. Please see the Fees and Scholarships tab for more information.

During your study at CQUniversity

To take part in this Career Taster, students must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while in workshops and training areas. PPE is required to help keep students safe in practical learning environments.

Students are to wear:

  • Closed-in safety boots with reinforced toe cap (Approved to AS/NZS 2210.3:2019)
  • Long-sleeved cotton drill/twill shirt
  • Long cotton drill or denim work pants

Important information

  • PPE must be worn at all times when directed by CQUniversity staff.
  • Students who do not wear the required PPE will not be able to participate in practical activities

Fees & Scholarships

The following Career Tasters course is made available at no cost to eligible year 10 Queensland students, thanks to the Australian Government and Queensland Government.  

To be eligible to participate, students must be 15 to 17 years of age by the commencement of the month of their chosen intake and one of the following: 

  • a Year 10 student currently enrolled in a mainstream Queensland school including Home Education.
  • enrolled in a Special Assistance School
  • disengaged from school 

International students must hold a valid visa that permits access to government-funded training.

Students participate by completing one Career Taster at a time, and may participate in a maximum of two Career Tasters in total. 

Additional eligibility criteria apply, visit Career Tasters to learn more.

How to Apply

How to Apply

Check what you need to do to apply to study this course. 

Your Application Options

Follow These Steps

  1. 1
    Check you meet the course requirements
  2. 2
    Get a Unique Student Identifier

Start Your Application

Our easy-to-use online application system will guide you through the process of applying for a TAFE course. If you need help along the way with your application, talk with one of our Student Advice team members by calling 13 27 86.

This course is a highly competitive course with limited places available and is subject to change based on availability.

Apply

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