Stories

For Kruze Summers, the UQ Skills and Nyanda Junior Ranger Program is helping turn a career goal into a practical pathway.

Mark Taylor is the 2026 VET Trainer of the Year for the Darling Downs South West region, recognising his outstanding contribution to vocational education, agriculture and the learners he supports.

For Bachelor of Agribusiness and Bachelor of Agricultural Science student, Paton Turner, a passion for agriculture was sparked in her teens and nurtured through the UQ Skills high school programs that helped build her capability.

UQ Skills Academic Program Manager, Di Palmer, has built a career defined by passion, resilience and a deep commitment to people.

When Jeffrey Pace enrolled in the Diploma of Agriculture at the start of 2025, he was searching for a pathway into a new industry.

For Sandra Strenzel, Program Support Officer with UQ Skills, supporting people has always been at the heart of her work.

Shale Sutherland, made one of the biggest decisions of her life when she left her full-time job as a National Sales Manager to pursue her passion for agriculture.

For Emma Thomson, growing up on a Northern Territory cattle farm meant she always understood the practical, hands-on side of agriculture.

When Owyn Thomas enrolled in the Diploma of Agriculture and the Diploma of Agribusiness, he hoped the experience would help him understand the industry, but he did not expect it to shape his future so quickly.

For Ash Noonan-Atfield, Animal Care and Veterinary Nursing Educator with UQ Skills, a love of animals has always been part of who she is.