Find your dream STEM career with one of these awesome VET pathways
From lab technicians to web developers, vocational education and training (VET) is crucial in equipping people with the skills they need to make their mark in STEM careers. VET courses typically take place at TAFE institutions and colleges and can be a great choice for anyone who wants to gain skills and qualifications without the fees and time commitment that uni degrees often come with.
Below, we’ve listed some excellent VET qualifications that’ll set you up for a career in STEM.
Science
1. Diploma of Laboratory Technology >> lab technician
2. Diploma of Dental Technology >> dental technician
3. Diploma of Nursing >> enrolled nurse
4. Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management >> sustainability manager
5. Diploma of Agriculture >> agronomist
Technology
6. Certificate III in Telecommunications Technology >> telecommunications tradesperson
7. Certificate IV in Cyber Security >> website penetration tester
8. Certificate IV in Information Technology (Gaming Development) >> game developer
9. Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) >> network support technician
10. Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming) >> junior developer
11. Diploma of Information Technology >> web developer
12. Diploma of Information Technology (Database and Data Management) >> systems administrator
13. Diploma of Information Technology (Game Art and Design) >> animator
Engineering
14. Certificate II in Engineering >> production worker
15. Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade >> blacksmith
16. Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade >> fitter
17. Certificate III in Engineering – Technical >> mechanical engineering technician
18. Certificate III in Process Manufacturing >> mineral products manufacturing officer
19. Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (Hydraulic Services Design) >> hydraulic designer
20. Diploma of Engineering – Technical (Mechatronics) >> robotics engineer
21. Advanced Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical) >> design engineer
Maths
Maths is the language of STEM and is super important if you’re studying science, tech or engineering. If maths wasn’t one of your electives at school and you find yourself needing to scrub up on it before diving into a VET qualification, TAFE has got your back. You can sign up for bridging programs to sharpen your numbers game so you’re fully equipped for a future STEM study and career path.
VET pathway case study: Corey Tutt
Passionate about science and animals, it was a Certificate III in Captive Animals that landed Corey Tutt OAM his first job at Shoalhaven Zoo. He later qualified as an animal technician at TAFE and worked as a research assistant at the University of Sydney. Corey, a Kamilaroi man, has since founded Deadly Science, an awesome initiative to equip remote Indigenous schools with STEM resources. Living proof you can kick some serious STEM career goals with a VET pathway!
Find more VET pathways into STEM, plus the stories of STEM pros who started here, over on our VET section.
This article was originally published in Careers with STEM: Science. For more on STEM careers, subscribe to our YouTube channel and sign up to our e-newsletter.
