CQU helps Kat steer path from apprentice to mentor

By Greg Chapman

Kat Talty’s time honing her skills as a heavy vehicle mechanic at CQUniversity TAFE empowered her self-belief so much that she is now mentoring other young female apprentices to take up a trade themselves.

The 26-year-old completed her training in Mobile Plant Technology at CQUniversity in February last year, a time she looks back upon with pride.

“I decided to do an apprenticeship because I wanted a change in career, and really wanted to do something hands-on, where I could learn (on-the-job),” she said.

“I really enjoyed my time at TAFE. I was able to do training at the Emerald, Mackay and Rockhampton campuses, with the Rockhampton campus being a real highlight because of the new workshop. I also had a variety of teachers, all bringing years of experience and knowledge.”

Kat’s apprenticeship was with BHP’s Caval Ridge Mine and she continued to work at the site – until a new opportunity came knocking. 

“I was offered the Women in Automotive Mentor position at BUSY at Work, based in Mackay, and covering Central and North Queensland. I decided to take this role because of how many people, especially women, were having difficulties in their apprenticeships, with a lot leaving,” she said.

“I saw an opportunity to help people and actually make a difference.”

Kat said she enjoyed her mentoring role and was glad to see more young women considering an apprenticeship.

“I believe that more women are taking up a trade now for many reasons. They are being given the opportunities to do it, they have people who back them, it is being normalised more and more for women to be able to do a trade, plus, there is so much more support out there for women undertaking apprenticeships,” she said.

“What do I have to say to women thinking about taking up a trade? Why not? If it is something you are interested in, and can enjoy, why not take the chance and try?”

Visit https://www.cqu.edu.au/study/apprenticeships-traineeships for more information.

Any young women interested in BUSY at Work's automotive mentee or mentor program can email info@busysisters.com.au or call Kat on 0427 535 954.