Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication Trade)
Our 10,000th graduate Amit Sharma, from Fiji, graduated with a Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade. Amit is married with three children. He is currently employed at Hammerhead Aluminum Boats Fiji Ltd. Amit has worked as a welder/fabricator for the past 13 years.
What did it mean to receive a scholarship to study at APTC?
It was my dream come true. I knew that the course I was going to undertake was going to help me achieve bigger things in my life. To get that opportunity was a big achievement for me.
How was your studying experience at APTC?
The study experience was the best part of my scholarship. I learned a lot of things at APTC, such as using hand and power tools, planning work activities, fabrication forming processes, assessable fabricated components, interpret drawings, develop drawings to specifications, weld using a range of processes and use fabricate and replace techniques. Before I used to think I am a welder and there is nothing else I have to learn. When I joined APTC, I learnt there are so many things that you can learn.
What did you enjoy most about your time at APTC in Samoa?
Our APTC staff and student counsellors were always there for us, whenever we called them or ran short of anything, they were there to help us. The hospitality of people in Samoa that also great.
What were some challenges you faced as a student?
I did not face many difficulties with studies as our course necessities were provided; our uniforms, tools, safety gear, were all up-to-date – we worked with modern machines and equipment.
How has the APTC training impacted your personal life and career?
It has made me a better person – it has broadened my perspective and to have a professional approach towards my job. When we study at APTC, we also get to do other extra-curricular activities like sports, hiking, and learn how to use a computer to write emails etc. These things add value to our learning.
What are some of the new things you learnt at APTC and apply to your work and life now?
I was a shy student at the beginning of the APTC training, but eventually ended up being a leader. I took up all my fellow students problems and issues to campus and management team. That has really built up my confidence. That has helped me in my workplace to be a better leader, where I can confidently lead a team.
What does a APTC Certificate III in Fabrication Trade mean to you?
If you get a APTC qualification, then you will stand out from others in your field and have more value of what you can deliver. In my opinion, every businessman is looking for a welder with a certificate like the one I have attained from APTC.
What are your future plans?
Since returning from Samoa, I have established a small business named after my youngest daughter – Grace Welding Works. My plans are to make that business a household name one day, I want to grow that business and employ people and be fair to them – pay them right, do things right.
Advice to other APTC students:
Do not let past experiences distract you from achieving your goals in life. Use your time wisely and be focused in your studies. Once you get an opportunity to study at APTC to up skill yourself, make the most of it to help you take your career to the next level.