source : the age
For full-time mum and part-time graphic designer Cindy Wang, 2025 was all about stepping outside her comfort zone. Signing up for a new micro-credential to work at the Western Sydney International Airport was a sure-fire way to achieve that.
Launching on Thursday, the introduction to aviation operations micro-credential is part of an initiative from Western Sydney University, Bradfield Development Authority and Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird Walton) Airport to ramp up the workforce ahead of the airport’s opening in late 2026.
Cindy Wang is making the shift to aviation, thanks to a new micro-credential.Credit: Steven Siewert
Wang has always had a keen interest in airports and travelling, and the new micro-credential presented her with the perfect opportunity to make the change she had been looking for. She’s one of the first people to start the program.
The move represents a major shift for Wang, who is hoping to switch out of a 15-year career as a graphic designer for a future role in aviation, a decision that was both daunting and exciting for her to make.
“Just the whole excitement of that airport: travelling, going somewhere new, meeting different people, the culture – it’s always appealed to me,” Wang said.
“If I don’t do it now, when will I do it? My husband is quite supportive so he was like ‘if you want to do it just give it a go, nothing to lose’. If it doesn’t work for me, I can always go back to what I’m doing now.”
The micro-credential will prepare students for entry-level aviation roles at Western Sydney Airport.Credit: Nick Moir
The micro-credential course will prepare Wang and other students for entry-level aviation roles such as an airline customer service agent, baggage handler, ground operations and check-in staff member, while also serving as a pathway for further study in aviation, travel and tourism. By 2041, the airport is expected to have created about 24,000 direct jobs.
Tailored for school-leavers, career changers and current workers seeking formal aviation credentials, graduates of the program led by The College at Western Sydney University will earn a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment aligned with the Certificate I in Aviation.
The program combines online learning and AI-powered support with practical workshops and 360-degree airport simulations – which Western Sydney University said would offer “real-world insight” into modern aviation environments. Priced at $350, it gives students the flexibility to study in a way that best works for them, including through a standard six-week course, an intensive four-day workshop, or a one-day bootcamp for those with more experience.
For Wang, it allows her the freedom to balance her studies with her part-time work, while also looking after her children – something she believes will also appeal to other western Sydney women who are searching for a career shake-up.
“I’m just doing the course online, which is great ’cause I put the kids to sleep and jump on the computer and I did the first two modules over two nights,” she said.
“I think it would be really good to see more women in the industry just to get involved, especially mature women as well, or mums.”
The Sydney Morning Herald has opened its bureau in the heart of Parramatta. Email parramatta@smh.com.au with news tips.
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