Nigel’s passion for mechanics shifts a gear
After more than 30 years in the automotive industry, CQUniversity Light Automotive Teacher Nigel Hill is passing on the skills of the trade to the next generation of mechanics, helping students turn their passion for cars into a career.
For Nigel, becoming a TAFE teacher at CQUniversity was more than a career change. It was the opportunity to pursue an ambition he had held since his own apprenticeship.
“I’ve always wanted to be a TAFE teacher,” Nigel said.
“I’ve been around for 30 years getting my hands greasy, so now it’s nice to be able to pass it on to the up-and-coming generation.”
Nigel began his automotive apprenticeship through TAFE in Rockhampton in 1996, before completing his training and entering the industry in 1999.
Over the years, he worked across several dealerships, including 18 years at DC Motors in Rockhampton, progressing through roles as a workshop foreman, workshop controller and service manager.
When the opportunity to teach arose, he knew it was time to take the leap.
“I never thought I’d leave DC Motors, but my heart always wanted to teach at TAFE,” he said.
“As soon as I saw the opportunity, I thought I’d put in for it. If it was meant to be, I’d get it – which I did.”
Making a difference, one student at a time
Since stepping into the teaching role, Nigel has discovered that some of the most rewarding moments come from watching students develop the confidence to put their skills into practice.
He recognises a lot of himself in the young people starting their automotive training – some arrive nervous and unsure of their abilities, while others are still discovering where a trade could take them.
For Nigel, creating a welcoming learning environment is an important part of helping them succeed.
His classes often begin with an icebreaker, a brain teaser or a light-hearted challenge designed to help students feel comfortable and ready to learn.
“I like to start the lesson off a little bit differently, just to break the ice so we’re not all uncomfortable with each other,” he said.
“It’s working, because my class engages every day they come in. They’re always asking, ‘What have you got for us today, sir?’”
As students become more confident, Nigel enjoys seeing them tackle practical tasks with increasing independence – moving from needing close supervision to confidently working through a job themselves.
“Watching them grow, watching them learn – you give them an engine and walk them through the process, and they can do it,” Nigel said.
“It brings joy to me knowing they can do it without 100 per cent supervision.”
The impact is already evident. In his first year, seven students across his three classes secured apprenticeships, opening the door to further training and hands-on industry experience.
“Seeing them get an apprenticeship is really rewarding and exciting for them – and me too,” Nigel said.
A changing industry creates new opportunities
Nigel’s decades in the industry have given him a front-row seat to the evolution of automotive technology, with today’s mechanics needing to understand far more than traditional mechanical repairs.
Hybrid and electric vehicles are changing the way mechanics work, with new technologies requiring ongoing learning and specialist safety knowledge.
He believes these developments make the trade just as relevant as ever.
“When they say it’s a dying breed, well, it’s not really. It’s just changing a little bit,” he said.
“Electric and hybrid cars still have wheels and tyres that need to be serviced. They still have brake fluid and other components that need inspection.”
For students entering the industry, that means building a strong foundation in automotive skills while preparing to adapt as technology advances.
For Nigel, the move from the workshop to the classroom has opened a new chapter in a career built around his love of cars.
Now, he can pass on that passion, share decades of industry knowledge and help students take their first steps towards a rewarding trade career.
His experience is a reminder that a successful trade career can lead somewhere unexpected – including the opportunity to help shape the next generation.
Could you be CQUniversity’s next TAFE teacher?
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.
CQUniversity 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.
