Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade

RTO: TAFE NSW

Employer: Zeal Futures

Host Employer: South 32

After working as a trade’s assistant in country NSW, Rachael relocated to Wollongong to pursue a career in rugby league while she completed a mining apprenticeship. During this time, Rachael played for the St George Illawarra Dragons NRLW team, and she was also selected for the NSW Women’s State of Origin team – which went on to win the series in 2022.

During her  apprenticeship, Rachael was enrolled in a Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade at TAFE NSW, employed by Zeal Futures Group Training and hosted by a global mining company South32.

Having completed her apprenticeship, Rachael is now able to focus on her career as a professional athlete, safe in the knowledge that she will always have a trade to come back to when her sporting career ends.

Rachael is a shining example of the possibilities that are available through vocational education and training.