Kangan Institute is celebrating a double finalist success in the 2026 Victorian Training Awards.
Cybersecurity student Masoumeh Bayat has been named a finalist for Vocational Student of the Year and the Melton NextSteps Program shortlisted for the Industry Collaboration Award.
The Victorian Training Awards are the state's premier celebration of vocational education and training excellence, recognising outstanding students, teachers, employers and training providers who are shaping Victoria's future workforce.
Masoumeh Bayat's nomination recognises an inspiring career transformation, with her cybersecurity studies helping her rebuild her career in digital technology after moving to Australia from Iran. Masoumeh secured employment as a network support engineer while still training at Kangan Institute.
(Victorian finalist Masoumeh Bayat)
“Seeing my achievements recognised through the Victorian Training Awards is both grounding and motivating,” said Masoumeh.
“Cyber security work usually happens quietly in the background, so having it acknowledged at this level reinforces that the long hours, constant learning and high standards I set for myself are making a real impact. It’s a milestone but also a reminder to keep pushing further.”
Masoumeh credits her vocational studies for helping her shape her career in Australia.
“TAFE gave me more than qualifications, it gave me momentum,” she said.
“The practical, industry‑driven training allowed me to enter cyber security early and contribute with confidence. It shaped my professional identity and gave me the foundation to grow in a field where adaptability and continuous learning are essential.”
The Melton NextSteps Program showcased the power of industry collaboration, bringing together Kangan Institute, Lendlease and Melton Secondary College to support students to stay engaged in school while creating pathways into construction careers.
Designed to address a skill need in Melbourne’s west, the Melton pilot program built on Kangan Institute's proven delivery of similar programs across metropolitan and regional Victoria.
(Participants of the Melton NextSteps program with their teachers)
The Melton model was the first of its kind to be co-designed and delivered with industry, improving student attendance and engagement while creating pathways into further study, apprenticeships and employment.
The pilot was launched ahead of Kangan Institute’s new campus which will open in Melton in 2028.
