Scott brings wealth of experience to Autonomous Technologies course
By Greg Chapman
New CQUniversity Mackay teacher Scott McCarthy is determined to ensure his students are ready for the future of automation.
Having hands-on trade experience and back-end, post-degree exposure to autonomous systems, Scott has revised the curriculum for CQU’s Certificate II in Autonomous Technologies.
Autonomous technology involves using equipment, systems, and software to perform tasks with minimal or no human intervention. It streamlines processes, reduces errors, and improves efficiency across various industries and applications.
“I have always wanted to be a teacher, and was looking at adding a Master of Education to my degree and becoming a secondary teacher,” Scott said.
“Autonomous Technologies is something I have always been interested in and have a deep understanding of, and through both my trade and IT roles I worked with automation directly.”
Scott’s qualifications include professional experience working with the systems that are used in automation, and he plans to bring that experience to the course.
The Certificate II in Autonomous Technologies (a Start TAFE Now (STN) in schools course), is a unique entry-level qualification that introduces students to a variety of skills that can be utilised in different career opportunities in the emerging and expanding area of autonomous technologies. Supported by industry, this course provides an opportunity for students to learn skills for the future.
“There will be many revised aspects to the Certificate II. I have restructured the entire course and created all the presentation material and the planning of units.
“In previous years there would be days of theory and a knowledge assessment with students taking assessment home. I have structured and planned for there to be as little theory as possible with a focus on practical assessments and having all assessments completed in class.
“I have the hands-on and back-end experience directly relevant to the material, with years of experience training apprentices and trainees.
“My focus will be on group and teamwork with practical learning, which is more suitable for the younger students studying a Certificate II.”
Applications for the July 2025 intake at Rockhampton and Mackay are now open until 23 June, 2025.
Learn more about the Certificate II in Autonomous Technologies by visiting the course page.
