Aviation Australia is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with FNQ Vocational Academy, bringing a first-of-its-kind aviation training program to secondary students in Cairns. Launching this July, the initiative is designed to open doors to high-flying careers in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.
This innovative school-to-work pathway is tailored for Year 11 and 12 students across all state and non-state schools in the Cairns region. It’s a hands-on, future-focused program that blends classroom learning with real-world experience—right at the heart of Cairns Airport.
Students can choose between two specialised study streams:
“Aviation is a global, growing industry with a wide range of career opportunities,” says Chris Pigott, Aviation Australia’s Business Manager for North Queensland. “We’re thrilled to launch this program in Cairns, helping students gain job-ready skills and explore exciting pathways in aviation.”
In addition to theory and school-based study, students will complete weekly work placements with aviation operators at Cairns Airport, gaining valuable industry exposure and building connections that can lead to future employment.
Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker highlighted the region’s unique position:
“Cairns is a gateway to some of Australia’s most remote regions and sees more passenger movements per resident than capital cities. This program positions Cairns as a national leader in aviation training and workforce development.”
This program is part of a broader regional initiative led by the Department of Trade, Employment and Training, the Department of Education, TAFE Queensland’s Cairns campus, and Trinity Bay State High School. Aviation Australia is proud to join as the aviation training partner, contributing to a long-term solution for national workforce shortages.
“By investing in school-based aviation training, we’re building capability ahead of demand,” says Pigott. “We’re not just preparing students for jobs—we’re preparing them for careers.”
Applications are now open for the FNQ Vocational Academy’s aviation program. Students will work toward their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) while gaining practical, industry-aligned skills.
To learn more or apply, visit tafeqld.edu.au/fnqvocationalacademy or email [email protected].