Tradie Tales: Refrigeration & Air Conditioning 2017 Skillaroo Nathan McHugh

Provide an overview of your current career: 

I commenced a school base traineeship in 2011 with DTM Air as a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician and progressed to complete my apprenticeship in 2016. I started a second apprenticeship to become dual trade qualified as an electrician in 2016 and am looking to complete this qualification by the end of 2018. In 2016 I competed in the WorldSkills competition at regional and national levels, and after winning the gold medal at all these levels represented Australia in the international championships in 2017 at Abu Dhabi where I was placed 7th in the world. In 2017 I was also named as the ARBS Tradesman of the year which was a recognition from my peers. 

What are your major takeaways from being involved with WorldSkills?

The major takeaways from being involved in Worldskills is the additional benefits that came from the extra effort I put into my training to become a technical expert within my trade and now utilise these skills every day. The recognition from my peers and opportunity to grow personally and professionally through networking, coaching and now judging. 

Where in the world has your skill taken you?

I have travelled from Brisbane and attended events in Sydney, Melbourne and Newcastle as well as the incredible experiences traveling to Germany for Chillventa and competing in Japan and Abu Dhabi. 

Your company has been involved with the Commonwealth Games this year? Explain a little bit about how you’ve been involved and what this means for you and your career?

DTM Air subcontracted to the principal contractor for the commissioning of all air conditioning and refrigeration requirements for the village and sports venues. It was a massive project and I worked on some complex units. The sheer scale of the Commonwealth Games set up was quite amazing as I got too see so many venues. I was also very honoured to be nominated by TAFE Qld to be a Queens Relay Baton Bearer and travelled to Dalby in March to run my leg of the relay. 

If someone was looking at competing or about to compete at Skills Show– what advice would you offer them? 

It is a once in a life time opportunity that can open many doors for your professional and personal growth. At the very least, the additional training you put into your competition preparation will provide you with  better technical skills and understanding of your trade that you will take with you to every job every day. Just do it. 

Use five words to describe your typical work day: 

Diverse, challenging, rewarding, tiring and fun. 

Rapid Fire Questions: 

How long have you been practising your skill?  

4 years

What do you love most about your trade?  

Specialised skills required for technical work. 

What project are you most proud of? 

Competing at Worldskills

What about your job makes you smile?

My pay packet. 

Successfully diagnosing faults quickly.