Thanks to the skills she has learnt studying at Tenterfield's TAFE NSW Connected Learning Centre, Tahlea has become an important asset at the Commercial Boutique Hotel and Girraween Environmental Lodge, dividing her time making a positive impression on customers at both local businesses.

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"My position at Girraween Environmental Lodge gave me the drive to go to TAFE and learn more skills. In 2018 I enrolled in a Certificate II in Hospitality, and I enjoyed the course so much that I enrolled in the Certificate III in Hospitality straight after," Tahlea said.

"While I was completing the Certificate III, I applied for a job at the Commercial Boutique Hotel, and was lucky enough to be offered employment there.

"Studying at TAFE not only helped me get a job, it helped me build my confidence and was so great I have this year started studying a Certificate III in Business. It's a whole new challenge, but I wanted to learn more skills that will help my career progress."

While rotating hours and split shifts are not for everyone, Tahlea admits she enjoys aspects of both the hospitality and business industries.

"I enjoy working at both the Commercial Boutique Hotel and Girraween Environmental Lodge - I especially like meeting new people from all corners of the world, and it's a huge thrill to be able to meet their needs," she said. "There's nothing better than receiving positive feedback from clients about how wonderful their experience has been."

TAFE NSW Tenterfield Hospitality teacher Jennifer Clancy was full of praise for Tahlea, saying: "Tahlea is diligent in her learning and is willing to have a go even when she feels uncomfortable or is unsure if she is doing things correctly.

"Tahlea has an exemplary work ethic and personal commitment to do well, which will take her a long way in her career."

TAFE NSW Deputy Regional General Manager, Adam Bennett, added: "TAFE NSW prides itself on offering life-changing training opportunities and Tahlea is a great example of students getting real-life employment opportunities thanks to the skills they learn at TAFE," he said.

"According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook data, the hospitality industry is experiencing a critical skills shortage across the country, and there will be more than 182,000 new administration positions generated Australia-wide in the next five years.

"This opens up some very exciting opportunities for Tahlea, and should inspire anyone considering a new career to come and learn at TAFE."

To find out more the range of courses at TAFE NSW, phone 131 601 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au.