When Tom Harms began his Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician at TAFE Gippsland three years ago, he had no idea it might one day lead him to Shanghai. But after taking out gold at the WorldSkills Australia National Championships, that’s exactly where he’s headed.
Now a third-year apprentice employed with Marathon Electrical in Sale, Tom’s success on the tools is lighting the way to international competition—and he’s taking it all in stride.
“I’ve learnt a lot from competing at WorldSkills so far—using different materials and techniques that we don’t use at work—and I’ve made lots of good friends out of it,” Tom said.
“I’m looking forward to Shanghai next year, but I haven’t thought too far into it yet. We’ve got our first meeting in August, so we’ll know a lot more after that.”
Tom’s journey reflects the future-focused, hands-on learning approach TAFE Gippsland is proud to offer. While an overseas trip is an exciting twist, it’s the everyday challenges of the trade that keep Tom motivated.
“We face challenges every day on the tools, and you have to be good at problem solving to resolve them,” he said.
“I love a challenge and I really enjoy the hands-on learning.”
Tom’s long-term goal is to specialise within the electrical industry, but for now, he’s embracing life as a 20-year-old Gippsland tradie—footy, camping, mates—and preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime experience representing Australia at WorldSkills International in 2026.
World domination in electrical installation? We’re backing him all the way.
Tom Harms (centre) with his fellow TAFE Gippsland's WorldSkills Nationals winners: Abbey Jeffs (Electrical) and Reuben Pinkerton (Construction Steelwork).