Former electrician Tom Lillis has changed careers and impressed his teachers by swiftly gaining a position as breakfast announcer at Gem FM Inverell thanks to TAFE NSW.

He’s joined the radio industry at a time when people are turning to radio as a critical source of information and connection during the COVID-19 crisis1.
 
29-year-old Tom was ready for a career change, though he was already an established electrician after completing a Certificate IV in Electrotechnology (Electrician).

“Yes, I started out as an electrician, it’s been a pretty good gig and I’ve enjoyed my time in the profession, but I had a niggling feeling that it wasn’t quite right for me long-term,” Tom said.

“I’ve always been keen on media and wondered what it would be like work in the industry. I know from my own experience that TAFE NSW has great, industry-led training and connections so I knew I would be in great hands as I embraced my career change.”

Tom enrolled in the Diploma of Screen and Media (Radio) at TAFE NSW Ultimo in Semester 1 2021 and has now secured a position as a breakfast announcer at GEM FM Inverell.

He says his time at TAFE NSW gave him the kick start he needed to get his new career on track.

To  find out more about the range of study options available at TAFE NSW including the Diploma of Screen and Media (Radio), visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.