Kaitlyn’s story

Kaitlyn Doan is the first person in her Vietnamese family to embrace the benefits and opportunities of a TAFE education to pursue a career in the construction industry. Kaitlyn started her construction pathway with TAFE while finishing high school. Studying at TAFE has helped Kaitlyn follow her passion, and she encourages others to take advantage of Fee-Free TAFE courses to achieve career progression and job stability in key growth industries, like construction.

Kaitlyn’s career journey

• During her High School Certificate (HSC) Kaitlyn undertook a technical and vocational education and training (TVET) course – a Certificate II in Construction.

• She spent two and a half years working in an apprenticeship for a prestigious construction company.

• Kaitlyn then joined a carpentry company with a goal set towards building houses.

• She is currently completing her Certificate III in Carpentry and in her third year of an apprenticeship.

What drew you to taking on a role that may not fit the expected traditional education pathway?

I’ve always loved building things and seeing something through from start to finish. Working in trades and vocational careers is becoming increasingly attractive, and I am excited by the growth that the construction industry is experiencing.

Growing up in Australia while still respecting my Vietnamese background has given me a unique perspective on the value of hard work. My parents have always been very supportive. They both said that as long as I’m happy, they’re happy.

I was really lucky, a lot of migrant parents put pressure on their children to do HSC, get a good ATAR and go to Uni. But doing a trade offers just as much security – you can work your way up to a site supervisor or site manager.

I’ve been lucky to be in really good companies, all the boys on site treated me like one of their own, and I never felt excluded or different for being a woman.

I would say, make sure you make the most of it and ask questions. You can build the type of career you want if you’re willing to put yourself out there and go after it.

Speaking with Kaitlyn

Kaitlyn tells us about her experience challenging traditional roles as a second-generation Vietnamese woman while pursuing her dream career in carpentry.

Most of my family are impressed by my trade. They’re also pretty excited that once I’m qualified I can help them out with any renovations!

How has TAFE equipped you with job-ready skills for work?

There are so many different aspects to carpentry. At TAFE and on the job it’s something different every day. TAFE also helped me get my current job because my teacher recommended me to the company. But there are always going to be jobs in construction! As the population grows, we need more houses and more infrastructure. It’s guaranteed job security. Plus, you finish without any debt and get paid while you learn.

Do you have any advice to share with people considering a trade career path?

Keep an open mind. I’ve experienced both commercial and residential pathways as an apprentice, so I’m glad I tried both and can go forward without any regrets.

Explore your education options

Find out more about how Fee-Free TAFE can help you gain skills and qualifications that can open new and exciting career advancement opportunities.