In case you missed it, TAFE Gippsland introduced a new Innovation Team in 2025, bringing fresh thinking, curiosity and creativity to the future of education.
Small in size but big in ambition, the Innovation Department is focused on reimagining how learning is designed and delivered. The team brings together expertise across education, design, emerging technologies, research and problem solving to create meaningful, future-focused learning experiences.
Leading the team is General Manager of Innovation & Projects, Jules Blundell, alongside Product Design Specialists Vanessa McDonald and Anthony Patterson.
Together, they are exploring new opportunities to better prepare Gippsland students, businesses and communities for a world that is rapidly evolving.
“At TAFE Gippsland, we have always believed that education can shape futures—not only for individuals, but for entire communities,” Jules said.
“Our purpose is simple: to design meaningful learning experiences that prepare Gippsland for the world that is emerging, not just the one we know today.”
Supporting Gippsland to embrace AI
One of the most significant shifts shaping that future is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
While AI is already transforming industries and the way we work, adoption across regional Australia remains uneven. Nearly 40% of Australian small to medium businesses have begun using AI tools, yet regional businesses are still less likely to take that first step.
According to Jules, the challenge isn’t a lack of interest—it’s a lack of time, confidence and digital capability.
“It’s the gaps in awareness, digital skills, available time and confidence that make AI feel out of reach for many owners and teams,” Jules said.
To help bridge this gap, the Innovation Team has launched its first pilot initiative: Accelerating AI for Your Business.
Introducing: Accelerating AI for Your Business
Designed specifically for Gippsland small businesses, this practical, hands-on workshop is built to make AI accessible, relevant and immediately useful.
Over three hours, participants will explore how AI can support day-to-day work—from streamlining administration and marketing to improving decision making and efficiency.
“This pilot is the first step in a broader effort to build local capability and ensure Gippsland businesses aren’t left behind as AI becomes a core part of modern work,” Jules said.
“You’ll work with popular AI tools, explore real business scenarios, and learn how to use AI with confidence, clarity and control—no technical background required.”
While ideal for business owners, the course is open to anyone curious about how AI can be applied in real-world settings.
Course details
Accelerating AI for Your Business
Location: Gippsland Tech School, TAFE Gippsland
Dates: Wednesday 22 April or Thursday 23 April
Time: 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Guest presenter: Matteo Castilleo, Managing Director of Insurgence and Official OpenAI Services Partner – Australia, alongside TAFE Gippsland’s Innovation & Product team.
Inclusions: Light supper, tea and coffee
Cost: $99
Sign up for Accelerating AI for Your Business here.
Wednesday 22 April: BOOK HERE 👉 https://bit.ly/40CVqg2
Thursday 23 April: BOOK HERE 👉 https://bit.ly/4sKDsUG