Australian Trainee of the Year Stephen Witkowski already had a Bachelor of Science (Majoring in Marine Biology), an Honours in Marine Science and a wealth of other knowledge and experience when he took on the role of technical assistant at Tassal. However, it was completing a Certificate III in Aquaculture through Seafood & Maritime Training (SMT) that helped him translate his knowledge into practical application and build confidence in his role.
Skills Impact project team members for the Fishtech and Aquabotics Project met Stephen during a site visit earlier this year, during which he explained and demonstrated the skills required to use remotely controlled vehicles for environmental monitoring. Stephen says his experience completing a vocational education and training (VET) course post-university was extremely useful and positive.
“This was the versatile accreditation I needed to help utilise and further develop my knowledge on fish husbandry, whilst be licensed to perform the daily practical farm activities. Having completed most of my courses whilst working, I felt it was structured in a manner that considered working individuals.”
Stephen has been driven by a passion for marine conservation throughout his study and career. He believes his current role at Tassal is a great way for him to elicit real change and pursue a vision of a world where sustainability is paramount. His experiences of pursuing this passion through study have left him with a thirst for more.
“I have a great appreciation for the importance of continuous training and updating skills to ensure career growth and development. Therefore, I am currently looking into a Certificate IV in Aquaculture, or other related certificates.”
This passion for learning has put Stephen in good stead for progressing his career. He was a well-qualified candidate when a position in the Environments Department arose at Tassal. However, Stephen stresses that the real advantage of his qualifications, is how they have equipped him for work.
“The training I had completed not only helped secure this position, but also equipped me with the skills and knowledge to combat the challenges of my new role. I have since been able to help develop a range of practical procedures related to our environmental monitoring activities at the farms. Furthermore, this knowledge helps me with ongoing discussions with research bodies and Tassal about how to make the industry more environmentally sustainable for the future.”
Stephen has also been able to apply the skills learned in his Certificate III in Aquaculture to other areas of his life, particularly his community involvement as a Surf Lifesaver at the Kingston Beach Surf Lifesaving Club.
“These skills have many applications in regular patrol requirements. For example, inflatable rescue boat use and radio communications. Having this foundation has given me the confidence to lead others, and to enter into the Open State Surf Life Saving Championships where I was awarded silver in the Champion Lifesaver event.”
With this passion for both his vocation and lifelong learning, Stephen is an ideal ambassador for training in Australia. Stephen is proud of his Polish, Russian and Burmese heritage and is keen to encourage others to pursue their passion, particularly those who come from a migrant background like him.
“I hope the elements of my story will inspire others who face challenges related to their own migrant backgrounds or who are also in the early stage of their career, whilst showing others the value for VET course training in addition to tertiary qualifications, or enlightening others to the opportunities for using skills they learn to support other community-based activities.”