Changing careers is rarely a straightforward decision. However, for Canel Kemal, one of our recent graduates of the Certificate IV in Residential Drafting, the journey is about finding a balance between family life, professional ambition, and a long-standing interest in construction and design. 

A Career Change Sparked by Passion 

Before studying with BFDA, Canel had explored a wide range of career paths. This includes marketing and hairdressing as well as supporting her husband’s bricklaying business. Yet she always found herself drawn to plans and designs.  

“I found myself learning programs to draw floor plans… just little things like that, and that’s how I ended up here,” she explained. 

This genuine passion became the catalyst for a new professional direction. Rather than returning to her old industries, she embraced the opportunity to formalise her interest with a qualification. 

Why BFDA Stood Out 

When Canel began researching her options, she quickly narrowed it down to TAFE or BFDA. However, TAFE’s rigid structure didn’t suit her family commitments. In contrast, BFDA provided both flexibility and accessibility. She shared:  

“I liked obviously having the freedom to study… the benefit of online study. I can study, jump online whenever I want. The information is there, I can log on when I’m out of the house and have a read of something”. 

Although she admitted she preferred traditional classroom learning, the support and responsiveness of BFDA’s team gave her the confidence to succeed. 

Real-World Learning That Builds Confidence 

Importantly, Canel felt that the content of the course reflected industry standards.  

“I like the fact that what we were learning, what I was being taught, the way I was being taught was real” she goes on to explain that she felt confident in the knowledge learnt and likened her final drawing sets to those professionally drawn in industry.   

This reassurance gave her confidence that she was not only learning theory but also gaining job-ready skills valued by employers. 

Transitioning into a new industry can be daunting, but Canel highlighted how the feedback, practical exercises, and clear alignment with professional workflows equipped her with the confidence to pursue her career goals. 

Advice for Future Students 

Canel’s journey is a testament to how determination and the right study environment can unlock new career pathways. While balancing parenting and study was not without its challenges, she proved that with discipline and the right support, success is possible. 

Her story resonates particularly with: 

• Parents re-entering the workforce. 

• Career changers seeking flexibility, and 

• Individuals with exposure to construction who want to develop their skills. 

Start Your Own Building Design Journey 

Canel’s success demonstrates that anyone can have the courage to follow their passion. With the flexibility of online learning and the reassurance of industry-standard training, BFDA makes it possible to transform passion into a profession. 

Ready to start your own drafting journey? 

Explore the Certificate IV at BFDA

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