Round 1, 2022 VET Trainer Scholarship Recipients – Sharine Milne (left) & Tim McRae (right)
MTA Queensland has awarded the first round of the 2022 Vocational Education and Training (VET) Trainer Scholarships to Sharine Milne from R.H.D Classic Supplies and Services in Townsville, and Tim McRae from Carline Automotive in Bundaberg.
The scholarships are a fantastic opportunity for automotive professionals to advance their careers by undertaking a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116); a highly sought-after course that provides the skills and knowledge to deliver training in the VET sector. Valued at $2,500, the scholarships are awarded to one female and one male candidate each round.
Sharine Milne, also known as ‘Spanner,’ is the owner and head mechanic of R.H.D Classic Supplies and Services, a motorcycle service and repair shop in Townsville. She is a qualified mechanic and parts interpreter and holds a Certificate II and Certificate III in office administration and a Certificate V in management. Spanner has worked in the industry for almost 20 years, owning her own business for the last 10. While she already provides on-the-job work experience to apprentices, Spanner hopes to use this scholarship to build upon her skills and deliver a higher quality of training.
“I was given a chance to show what I have achieved and my commitment to continuous learning,” she said. “Now I want to be a better teacher and pass that on. It doesn’t matter where you started, VET has a pathway that will pave your way to the next goal no matter where it lies.”
Tim McRae is a qualified light vehicle mechanic who has worked in the industry for over 25 years, owning and managing workshops for the last 17. Currently the owner of Carline Automotive, a mechanical workshop in Bundaberg, Tim hopes to keep both his staff and customers satisfied by offering high quality service. He has trained many apprentices during his time and is extremely passionate about sharing his knowledge.
“It has been hard for everyone these last couple of years, but in the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity,” he said. “I feel very fortunate to be given this opportunity to expand my skills in training and can’t wait to get started!”
The VET Trainer Scholarship is available twice per year and is open to trade-qualified automotive employees in Queensland with at least five years’ experience. The next scholarship round will open 1 August 2022.
MTA Queensland is committed to addressing the skills shortage that exists across Queensland and supports the career advancement of automotive tradespeople.
Find out more about the VET Trainer Scholarship HERE.
1 April 2022