 Mark Callaghan’s Welcome
Dear WorldSkills Supporter,
On the 19th of May I had the honour to attend and to speak at the TAFE NSW Illawarra Institute Annual Awards dinner.
I always thoroughly enjoy attending these functions as they provide a great opportunity to witness the tremendous achievements of VET students and, just as importantly, their teachers.
Following the glamour and excitement of these nights, I am often left feeling disappointed that the stories of these remarkable Australians remains largely unknown.
I pick up the paper, turn on the TV or listen to conversation on the streets and there is little or no mention of the passion and dedication of these students and teachers or indeed of the significant contribution they make to our society and economy.
While there is broad acknowledgement of the fact that we will continue to face skills shortages and therefore need to attract more Australians to take up a VET qualification, the promotion of those who have excelled in VET (students and teachers) – real role models who show the success that is possible via a trade or skill – is minimal.
I am sure that if the awards I attended were to name the best and fairest player for the local footy club as opposed to the best apprentice or trainee of the year, I would be able to read about it, watch it and listen to it across all forms of the media as well as hearing it being spoken about as I walked down the street.
We all need to take on the responsibility of promoting opportunities and excellence in skills – the media, Governments, business, teachers, mums and dads – everyone.
We need to shout out our success stories from the roof tops and show all Australians that a career in a trade or skill is a viable first-choice option and one that will ultimately benefit the individual and the nation as a whole. | 
