Therese Nolan
Dr Therese Nolan has wide-ranging and in-depth knowledge of the VET system, including its intersection with the tertiary and secondary education sector and its importance for economic and social inclusion for women. A previous executive member of WAVE for many years, Therese engaged with the WAVE/Waltja “Ulkumantjuta Ukarratjuta* Together for Learning project and the Minmaku Palyantja Palya "Value Women's Good Work" project and enjoyed the collaboration with members of the WALTJA and the success that flowed from this joint venture. Therese left WAVE when she enrolled full time in her successful doctoral study that explored the influences on students’ career pathways and subject choices.
Therese has worked as a VET trainer in schools and TAFE Qld; RTO manager; industry to school liaison officer; university lecturer; research leader; principal; and is currently the Education Officer for VET and Vocational Learning for the Brisbane Catholic Education Diocese. Previous roles also involved membership of an Industry Skills Council and national secretary of an industry group for five years.
The National Skills Commission projected that more than nine out of ten jobs created in the next five years will require post-school education (NSC 2022). It is critical that women are not left behind in influencing the training agenda, accessing the foundation skills training and funding that ensure they take their place in the investment expended by the Government.
Policies that cater to the needs of those working as educators and trainers in the secondary & tertiary/VET education sectors, and ensuring equity is afforded our girls in schools, is also a particular focus for Dr Nolan.
Dr Nolan holds the following qualifications, Ed.D., M. Ed. Leadership, B. Education (Secondary), Cert IV TAE, Cert IV Business, Comm Dec.