The National Timber and Hardware Association’s senior trainer Colin Taranto has been named the winner of the prestigious NSW State Award for VET Trainer of the Year at the 2023 NSW Training Awards. Source: Timberbiz
Hailing from the Mid North Coast region in Northern NSW, an area surrounded by rich rural farmland and known for its robust timber industry, Mr Taranto’s success is a testament to the dedication and talent found within the local community. His achievements not only reflect his personal excellence but also highlight the strength and expertise of the region’s workforce.
This outstanding recognition underscores Mr Taranto’s significant impact on the timber and hardware industry through his dedicated delivery of qualifications in Timber Frame or Truss Manufacturing and Timber Systems Design at both the Certificate III and Certificate IV levels.
With an impressive career spanning 25 years in Frame and Truss and 13 years in Technical Market development/Sales with timber manufacturers and wholesalers, Mr Taranto brings a wealth of practical knowledge and expertise to his role as a trainer.
His commitment to excellence and innovation in vocational education and training (VET) is evident through his unwavering dedication to his students and the industry.
Mr Taranto’s motivation to become a trainer, stems from his desire to give back to an industry that has been an integral part of his life for as long as he can remember.
His mission is to address the significant skills shortage facing the industry by encouraging and developing local talent. Through his practical expertise and real-world experiences, he empowers trainees to gain a broader understanding of the industry and the people within it.
“I wanted to give back to an industry that has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. By encouraging and developing local talent, I aim to address the significant skills shortage our industry is facing. Sharing my practical expertise and experiences allows trainees to gain a broader understanding of the industry and the people within it,” Mr Taranto said.
NTHA CEO David Little said Mr Taranto was a perfect example of everything a VET trainer should be.
“He is a well-respected industry professional who left the timber workplace to give something back to the industry he loves,” Mr Little said.
“His dedication, practical expertise, and passion for nurturing local talent have made a significant impact in many, many young lives. We extend our warmest congratulations to Colin and wish him the best as he competes at the national level.”
Mr Taranto’s journey now takes him to the national stage, as he represents NSW at the Australian Training Awards which showcase the best practices in vocational education and training (VET) nationwide.
For more on NTHA Training and to get Colin to your NSW store, visit: www.ntha.com.au
