TAFETalks: Clean energy futures powered by TAFE

Learn more about the importance of collaborative partnerships in preparing the future workforce to support current and emerging automotive needs and power a clean energy future. You will also hear about the innovative work being undertaken by Canberra Institute of Technology Electric Vehicle Centre of Excellence, Bendigo Kangan TAFE, and TAFE Queensland Centre of Excellence Clean Energy Batteries, along with AUSMASA (JSC) and Foton Mobility Distribution, Australian distributor of new energy heavy vehicles.

Speakers

Shane Randall
With over 25 years of Experience in the automotive industry, Shane Randall has built a distinguished career working with Manufacturers, aftermarket companies, and major corporations.
A qualified technician and a registered roadworthy inspector in both ACT and NSW, Shane’s expertise spans various aspects of the industry, from technical work to regulatory
compliance. His extensive network, both in Australia and abroad, has led to the development of valuable partnerships, particularly in New Zealand within BMW. In 2025, Shane was
honoured with the prestigious BMW MVP Award for his exceptional contributions to the BMW Electric Vehicle Training program.
His dedication to advancing the automotive sector, particularly in electric vehicle technology, continues to drive his work today.

Greg Mitchell
Greg has over 25 years of experience in the Tertiary Education sector, having previously held appointments with Central Queensland University, TAFE Queensland and currently is the Head of Clean Economy Initiatives with Bendigo Kangan Institute in Melbourne.
He is a keen supporter of the transition to Net Zero and works across a wide number of sectors to ensure students have access to emerging technologies in their vocational programs. Greg is the TAFE Directors Australia Clean Energy Network Chair and is a strong advocate for collaboration across the TAFE sector.

Caroline Winter
Caroline Winter is Training Product Development Team Lead for the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA) Jobs and Skills Council.
Caroline has 20 years of experience in Education and Training where she has worked in different areas including VET in schools, RTO and industry. She has experience in managing the delivery of training programs, Learning Management Systems, software solutions, developing assessment tools, national training products, resources and compliance.

Ross Thompson
Ross is an experienced Heavy Vehicle After Sales Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the Automotive Industry. Ross has been focused on After Sales for more than 25 years with various major Truck and Bus OEM’s and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Foton Mobility / KRWHydron group as he leads their customer service team to ensure that their customers receive the very best of care and backup after purchasing the product. Ross has been engaged as the SME on many zero emission vehicle training products through various Tafe and University institutions and with the backing of their OEM’s provides knowledge and technical insights to Industry groups.

Shawn O’Sullivan
Shawn O’Sullivan has a wealth of experience in emerging industries education and training, shaped from a diverse career as a bush mechanic turned educator, to his current position as Executive Director, TAFE Centre of Excellence Clean Energy Batteries at TAFE Queensland.
The Centre, a $20M joint initiative by the Queensland and Australian Governments, thrives under Shawn’s leadership, focusing on equipping the nation’s workforce to meet the current and emerging needs of the clean energy batteries sector.
Passionate about accessible education, Shawn is committed to ensuring quality training is available to everyone, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.
With a degree in vocational education and training and extensive experience in curriculum design and industry engagement, Shawn has been instrumental in developing innovative training opportunities that address both community and industry demands.