Employer: TasTAFE
Subject Area: Engineering
Kelly Down is an engineering teacher at TasTAFE, delivering practical training to senior secondary students at the George Town Trade Training Centre. A qualified fitter and turner with extensive industry experience, Kelly brings engineering to life through hands-on learning that reflects the realities of the workplace while developing technical knowledge, communication and problem solving skills.
Passionate about helping students find their place in the trades, Kelly continually adapts her teaching to meet diverse learning needs. She has redesigned digital learning resources, introduced simulated shift handovers using mechanical builds and incorporated virtual welding technology to create more engaging and accessible learning experiences. Her innovative approach enables students to develop industry-relevant skills while remaining connected to learning, even during time away from the classroom.
Through her commitment to practical, inclusive and future-focused training, Kelly is helping students discover the possibilities within engineering and demonstrating how vocational education can inspire achievement, capability and a lasting connection to learning.