Prior opportunities knock for TAFE graduates

From left: CWOFF Andrew Walker, CWOFF David Westerman, Sharon Werka (Kangan Batman TAFE), PLTOFF (AAFC) Justin Hamilton, CUO Aaron Jorgenson and PLTOFF (AAFC) Mark McDine.

By WGCDR Barbara Butterworth

AUSTRALIAN Air Force Cadets (AAFC) received the first certificates from Kangan Batman TAFE following a historic memorandum of understanding with regard to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

The memorandum was signed off by CAF Air Marshal Angus Houston and Director/CEO of Kangan Batman TAFE John Parish.

Commander AAFC Group Captain Neil Northeast presented the certificates and commented on the excellent background of the portfolios that had been presented for audit to qualify for the certifications.

“My AAFC service has given me the confidence and ability to set goals for my life and to achieve them,” said Cadet Warrant Officer David Westerman, a 7-1/2-year AAFC veteran from No. 224 Squadron, who plans to use his Cert III in Business (Frontline Management) to support his application to the Australian Army studying Mechanical Engineering. He has recently attended his Officer Selection Board and is hopeful of receiving positive results.

Cadet Warrant Officer Andrew Walker attributes his metamorphosis over seven years from a shy young boy to a confident young man to the training he has received with the AAFC.

Andrew also received his Cert III in Business (Frontline Management). Andrew, from No. 208 Squadron, has completed his Air Force aptitude testing and wants to be in the Security Police.

Also from 208SQN, Cadet Under Officer Aaron Jorgenson is awaiting his aptitude testing to join the Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller and is sure his Cert III in Business (Frontline Management) will enhance his chances. Aaron cites the highlight of his AAFC service was his first solo, confiding that he got two circuits because he enjoyed it so much he called a “go around”!

Changing uniforms from Khaki (three years with the regulars and three with the Reserves) to Air Force blue was a great career move in more ways than one for Pilot Officer (AAFC) Mark McDine, who received his Cert IV in Business (Frontline Management).

Mark has been applying for managerial positions for some time without success as the prospective employers always wanted qualifications. Recently Mark has been afforded two interviews after applying for positions where he included the Cert IV in Business (Frontline Management) on his resume.

“I’ll definitely now be applying for my Diploma of Business (Frontline Management),” said Mark, who is Commanding Officer of 208SQN.

Commanding Officer of No. 201 Squadron, Pilot Officer (AAFC) Justin Hamilton started his association with the AAFC as a cadet, completing the SNCO course before joining the Army and spending three years with the Ready Reserve.

Justin is the Manager of the Colmslie Hotel and believes that completing his Cert IV of Business (Frontline Management) will enhance his opportunities with future employers whilst also being an example to cadets and staff as to what can be achieved from their training within the AAFC. Justin also plans to apply for his Diploma of Business (Frontline Management).

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