Metal Fabrication teacher Nick shapes region’s apprentices

By Greg Chapman

Nick Preston’s very first teaching role has taken him far at CQUniversity, with his skills and knowledge helping him train the boilermakers of the future in Central Queensland – and around the world.

Since coming on board as CQU’s Metal Fabrication Teacher in Emerald in 2020 after moving from the Brisbane area with his family, Nick has trained dozens of apprentices in the region’s various industries – and had the opportunity to work with apprentices in Indonesia.

“Our team was approached early this year to travel to Surabaya in Indonesia as part of a contract between CQU and Metso for training their apprentices and workers,” Nick said. 

“When I heard about the opportunity to teach over in Indonesia, I put my hand up. I have now travelled there twice, and I have really enjoyed the experience. 

“I was able to meet some amazing and genuinely nice people, and the Indonesian students were brilliant to say the least. It certainly provided its challenges at times with the language barrier, but I was able to incorporate new strategies to assist with this and received good feedback at the end of both training blocks.”

Prior to joining CQU, Nick worked with engineering firm Bradken, which specialised in the manufacture of Iron ore rail cars. 

He also worked for Skyline Pumps, which specialised in pump set manufacturing, installation and commission. Nick also gained valuable experience in the fabrication of skids, enclosures, piping and fuel tanks.

After completing his Certificate IV in Engineering – Higher Trade, Nick broadened his skills by working with a range of engineering businesses, including Komatsu, Hastings Deering and FSI Engineering. During this time, he contributed to projects including the fabrication of handrails and platforms for Komatsu and Hastings Deering, as well as manufacturing equipment such as buckets, water truck bodies, and 50-tonne low loader trailers for agricultural and mining applications.

Nick’s dedication as a teacher comes from his experiences with his own teachers when he was undertaking his apprenticeship.

“Ever since I undertook training myself and attended TAFE during my apprenticeship, I always had a massive amount of respect for my teachers and the knowledge and skills they were able to pass on to me. I told myself that someday, I would love to teach and pass on knowledge and skills of my own.

“I really enjoyed training up apprentices for the previous businesses I have worked for and seeing their skills progress and improve. 

“As soon as I saw the position at CQU advertised, I applied and having been going strong ever since.

“This is the first official teaching job I have had. I initially had no plans to pursue this job so young, however I'm glad I did and have no regrets in doing so.

“I honestly love the job. CQU has provided me with the training to obtain my Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and further down the line my Diploma of Vocational Education and Training. The opportunities for progression are incredible. There were times in the trade that the hours took their toll on me, I am now able to work shorter hours with more flexibility and spend more valuable time with my family, while continuing the work that I enjoy.

“The metal fabrication team is a great team to be a part of. When I started, I received high-quality mentorship and guidance when has led me to where I am today. We all work well together and support each other in any way that we can.”

He said experiencing ‘A-Ha!’ moments with his students is one of the highlights of his job.

“Seeing the satisfaction of the students accomplishing difficult tasks is one of the best parts of the job. Working alongside them, as they go above and beyond and put in the effort - it's great to have them thank you and shake your hand at the end of training. 

“If you’re considering becoming a teacher I would say, go for it; we are always looking for good tradespeople to pass on their skills and knowledge, to mentor and shape the next generation of workers.”

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.