Step into the world of vehicles, engines and automotive electrical systems. This Career Taster gives you hands‑on experience across two key automotive trade areas: heavy vehicle mechanics and auto electrics. Designed for students curious about how engines work, how large vehicles are maintained, and how modern electrical systems power them, this program offers an engaging introduction to the skills and environments found across the automotive industry. Throughout the program, you’ll gain hands-on experience in safe tool handling, engine fundamentals, basic circuits and diagnostic techniques, building confidence with tools, wiring, testing equipment and technical instructions. Whether you’re interested in diesel mechanics, automotive electrical systems, maintenance, or general automotive careers, this taster gives you the opportunity to discover your strengths, develop new skills and explore the pathways that might be right for you.
Definitions of our ACC, NACC and PDC short course codes.
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Students will delve into the inner workings of automotive systems, exploring engine components, electrical diagnostics, and fault-finding techniques using tools like multimeters and wiring boards. These hands-on experiences foster analytical thinking and mechanical problem-solving; skills that are essential in roles such as diesel mechanics, auto electricians, and heavy vehicle technicians. Beyond the transport and mechanical sectors, these capabilities also translate into fields like motorsport engineering, agricultural machinery maintenance, and even defence logistics, where vehicle systems and diagnostics play a critical role. This exposure encourages students to consider how mechanical aptitude and systems thinking can support a wide range of future opportunities, from technical trades to specialised industries that rely on precision, resilience, and innovation.
| 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.
Students will participate in hands-on engaging practical learning experiences and projects exploring concepts and practical skills used across the heavy vehicle maintenance and auto electrical trades. Students will take part in supervised, practical learning experiences that introduce them to key concepts, safety practices and foundational skills used across the automotive industry. Throughout the program, students will engage in a variety of hands‑on activities that reflect real automotive environments, such as working with tools and components, exploring how mechanical and electrical systems function, and developing an understanding of basic diagnostic processes.
| Unit Code | Unit Name |
|---|---|
| NUCRT281B | Automotive Systems & Engine Assembly |
| NUCRT281C | Auto Electrical Diagnostics |
| NUCRT281A | WHS and Introduction to Heavy Vehicle Systems & Diagnostics |
| Intake | Locations |
|---|---|
| July, 2026 | Rockhampton |
| August, 2026 | Mackay, Rockhampton |
For course commencement dates, please review the Career Tasters Delivery Schedule.
This course has no residential schools.
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:
Important information
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:
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.
Check what you need to do to apply to study this course.
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.
CQUniversity acknowledges Traditional Owners and Custodians and pays respect to the Elders of all First Nations peoples of Australia.CQUniversity Australia is a trading name of Central Queensland University
ABN: 39 181 103 288
RTO Code: 40939
CRICOS: 00219C
TEQSA: PRV12073
