An open day was held by GOTAFE at Wodonga Senior Secondary College on Tuesday to help people decide their future career paths.

Max Thomson, 16, a year 10 student at Wodonga Flexible Learning,  said he had always been interested in the field.

“I'd like to learn to paint vehicles and I want another trade behind me,” he said.

“I've grown up around trucks, hot rods and Harleys.”

A 12-week certificate two course runs in Wodonga and Wangaratta.

Students attend three days a week for practical and theoretical learning.

Automotive team leader Mark Ward said there had been an increase in the number of women entering the industry.

“We have held the day so people can find out what the trade is about,” he said.

“There is a skills shortage in this area, I often have employers ring me.

“We get students from as far as Finley signing up for the course.”