Switching to teaching electrical was the right move for Shahn
By Greg Chapman
For Shahn Hislop, moving from being an electrician into teaching at CQUniversity was the next logical step in her own learning journey.
Shahn has taught Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician at CQU’s Rockhampton campus for the past three years, moulding the electricians of the future while supporting her own family.
“For me, becoming a teacher was about being able to continue in my electrical career but also be home more, and more available for my family which includes three young daughters,” Shahn said.
“I think it’s great to pass on the knowledge I have and to help shape future apprentices and in turn keep learning and updating my skill set.”
Before becoming a teacher, Shahn completed her own apprenticeship and worked in domestic and construction electrical industries, as well as in the mining industry.
She said those many years of experience informed her teaching.
“Seeing the apprentices you have taught over the years go through the final stages of their Capstone assessment and come out as a licenced electrician, knowing that I helped get them to this point. I feel so proud of every single one of them,” she said.
She added that being part of a great team of teachers at CQU played a large part of her success.
“I have a great team around me, and we all support each other and work together,” she said.
“If someone in a trade is looking to become a trade teacher, I’d say do it! It’s definitely a career with many different opportunities and experiences.
“It’s worth working hard for those four years of your apprenticeship, because after that there are so many different paths you can take, and you will never stop learning.”
You don’t need to have a teaching qualification to apply to become a TAFE Teacher. Teachers must hold the relevant trade certificate and possess current industry experience.
CQU recognises talent and will help you gain your TAE40122 - Certificate IV in Training and Assessment through a fully supported pathway.
Enquire about how you can become a trade teacher at CQU TAFE.
