GUEST SPEAKER - TAFE CEO, MARK FIDGE
Gordon Curran introduced SW TAFE CEO Mark Fidge as guest speaker. Mark grew up in Terang and completed his accountancy studies at WIAE/Deakin Warrnambool. After working away for some years, Mark came to SW TAFE as Finance Manager and later Executive Manager of Corporate Services. He was appointed CEO earlier this year, and replaces Peter Heilbuth who has taken up a position as director of TAFE New England. Despite his youthful appearance, Mark brings 10 years experience in higher education to the position. He is passionate about engaging with, and listening to, the training needs of our region, and is focused on both improving job opportunities for students and better employee outcomes for industry.
South West TAFE’s primary aim is to provide students with world class training and the very latest skills. Beginning way back in the 1800s, South West TAFE has grown to become the largest and best regarded provider of skills training in south-west Victoria. South West TAFE strives to go a step further than other training providers. To ensure that the skills training provided is for in-demand jobs, they actively develop training programs to help address regional skills shortages. As a result, graduates have a very high chance of finding employment and excelling in their chosen field. SW TAFE offers a wide range of accredited qualifications, plus short courses and stand-alone units from industry training packages. In addition there are pre-apprenticeship, apprenticeship, traineeship, vocational and graduate studies, industry certificates and TAFE in Schools programs.
Study modes are also flexible, and include on campus, off campus, on site and online learning. The teachers, training facilities, support services and direct links with industry are second to none, enabling students to gain the insights and practical skills that their career and personal goals rely on. SW TAFE is also active in the community, providing supported education to students with special needs. Vital youth programs offer young people the chance to reconnect and engage. Campuses are located in Warrnambool, Portland, and Hamilton, with facilities and services set to expand as the region grows. A recent graduation ceremony took place in China as well. In summary, Mark indicated that:
Study modes are also flexible, and include on campus, off campus, on site and online learning. The teachers, training facilities, support services and direct links with industry are second to none, enabling students to gain the insights and practical skills that their career and personal goals rely on. SW TAFE is also active in the community, providing supported education to students with special needs. Vital youth programs offer young people the chance to reconnect and engage. Campuses are located in Warrnambool, Portland, and Hamilton, with facilities and services set to expand as the region grows. A recent graduation ceremony took place in China as well. In summary, Mark indicated that:
SW TAFE's mission is to contribute to our region by
Delivering the right skills and flexible pathways that support students, employers and industry
Supporting the economic, cultural and social development of our region
Providing opportunities for all
Supporting the economic, cultural and social development of our region
Providing opportunities for all
SW TAFE's values are
Customer Focus: Delivering the right experience and skills
Equality: Treating all with fairness and respect
Integrity: Honesty and transparency in everything we do
Excellence: Everyday continuous improvement, maintaining the highest possible standards
Achievement and Enjoyment: Creating a great place to work and learn
SW TAFE's difference is
South West TAFE is committed to delivering quality programs and services. This will be achieved by delivering a student journey which exceeds stakeholder expectations.
Mark thanked the Rotary Club of Warrnambool for its interest in SW TAFE and for its encouraging student award, and looks forward to continuing the great relationship that has been built up over the years.