Alfio Balsamo, Principal of Pathways of Woodcrest State College’s WesTEC Trade Training Centre, was recently recognised with award for Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning at the 2025 TEACHX Award. His leadership has connected classroom learning with industry demand through a network of 20 partner schools.
More than 900 students from across South-East Queensland are enrolled in vocational programs run through Woodcrest State College’s WesTEC Trade Training Centre, which Woodcrest manages as a regional vocational hub.
Building Futures Through Practical Learning
Woodcrest State College on Nev Smith Drive in Springfield is a hub for hands-on training in trades and technical fields. Through WesTEC, students earn nationally recognised qualifications from Certificate I to IV while still at school. Programs include automotive, construction, engineering, electrotechnology, health, business, and community services.
Under Balsamo’s leadership, WesTEC reached a 90 per cent completion rate, and all 2024 heavy vehicle automotive students gained apprenticeship offers. The college also supports School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships that combine paid industry work with study.
Collaboration at the Heart of Success
Woodcrest runs WesTEC as a shared resource for nearby schools such as Ripley Valley, Bellbird Park, Bundamba, and Redbank Plains. It uses a collaborative governance model with local principals. The QCT notes this approach keeps programs aligned with community and workforce needs.
Industry partnerships are key to the program’s success. WesTEC works with local employers and national industry partners to make sure training lines up with workplace standards. This collaborative structure has helped strengthen Springfield’s reputation as a growing education and employment hub.
Recognition for Leadership and Innovation
Balsamo’s work was celebrated in 2025 when he received the Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning award from the Queensland College of Teachers’ TEACHX program. The award recognises his innovative leadership and the positive outcomes achieved through vocational education at Woodcrest.
The Queensland College of Teachers highlighted how Balsamo’s model successfully connects education and employment, turning school-based learning into tangible career outcomes. His focus on collaboration, sustainability, and shared ownership has made WesTEC a model for other schools across the state.
Pathways Strengthening the Springfield Community
For families in Springfield and surrounding suburbs, Woodcrest’s success is more than just a school achievement, it represents a local effort to prepare young people for the future workforce.
The college’s partnerships with schools, TAFE providers and employers help students earn nationally recognised qualifications and access local job opportunities. Woodcrest State College’s practical learning and industry partnerships support local workforce pathways.
Published 17-October-2025