The Governance of St Patrick’s Technical College is overseen by a Board of Directors comprising representatives from industry and Catholic Education SA.
This industry leadership is unique in schools and serves to greatly enhance our trade programs and create opportunities for our students to enter the world of employment in their chosen field.
Board Members
Pat Bosco
Chair
With an established and successful career in industry, Pat has a well-rounded perspective on trades and the crucial role of apprentices and trainees.
At 17 years of age, Pat commenced a light vehicle mechanic apprenticeship and within a short period of time graduated to a supervisor role then into senior positions.
Highly curious and with a love of learning, Pat entered the Vocational Education and Training sector as a training consultant, gained his secondary teaching qualifications, and acquired additional credentials, including marketing, OHS, training and assessment.
Pat recently retired at age 74 from his role as Training and Marketing Consultant with Ai Group ATC (Apprentice & Trainee Centre). As a father of four children and granddad to eight, Pat continues to contribute to his community – coaching, refereeing, and chairing of various sporting clubs.
Pat is currently involved in the South Australian Solar Vehicle Association, assists in Foodbank hunger relief activities, assists Catherine House with maintenance schedules, along with other charitable activities. For over four years, Pat has contributed to the further development of St Patricks Technical College as a Board Member and Chair.
Rhys Ferrari
Deputy Chair
BAE Systems
Rhys is a former student of the College having graduated in 2016 and receiving the prestigious Max Davids Award. Commencing a school-based apprenticeship as a student of St Patrick’s Technical College, Rhys went on to complete his apprenticeship with a Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering and was awarded the Chairperson’s Award from Ai Group Apprentice and Trainee Centre for the most outstanding apprentice for 2019. Rhys has eight years of electronics trade experience in the defence sector working with BAE Systems Australia.
Eager to give back to the College that set him up for success, Rhys is passionate about the education and motivation for students at the College. He wants to ensure students have the best possible opportunities and environment to thrive and reach their full potential.
Hilary Ashworth
MEGT (Australia) Ltd
A former school teacher and small business owner, Hilary brings to the Board an in-depth knowledge of both the state and national vocational education and training sector.
Having worked across both TAFE QLD and TAFE SA since 1987, in numerous operational, tactical and strategic roles, Hilary joined MEGT (Australia) Ltd in 2020 as Business Development Manager.
She brings to the College Board her industry leadership skills in all aspects of workforce development, particularly through the engagement of apprentices and trainees.
Hilary is an ardent collaborative relationship builder. She strives to support industry in achieving workforce engagement, development, and economic goals for present and future state needs. She is passionate about the link between apprenticeships, traineeships, empowerment, industry engagement and the power of lifelong learning
Jacqui Asser
Catholic Education SA
Jacqui joined St Patrick’s Technical College in 2022 as Year 11 & 12 Student Manager having spent seven years as a member of the College Board. Previously working at the Catholic Education Office as Senior Education Advisor, Vocational Education for six years, and 17 years in the Catholic Education Sector. Jacqui is passionate about helping young people on their career development journey and assisting them and their families with making the successful transition through school.
With over 25 years working in the VET and careers sector at local, regional and state levels, Jacqui brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and enthusiasm to the College. She is a qualified career counsellor and professional member of the Career Development Association of Australia.
Outside of education, Jacqui enjoys running, camping and travelling the Australian Outback with her family.
Michael Hooper
Spitwater SA
Michael Hooper is CEO of Spitwater SA and Director of Spitwater NSW. Spitwater is a family orientated business specialising in the sales, service, and repairs of Australian made industrial cleaning equipment which is manufactured by parent company Ottico from its factory in Albury NSW.
Michael started with Spitwater 30 years ago in a sales role which developed into share holder and CEO / Director, and now employs more than 45 people in SA & NSW combined. Michael believes in creating a positive work environment whilst running a profitable and successful business that prides itself on quality products and exceptional service and support.
Michael brings to the College Board strategic planning and execution and enjoys creating bespoke solutions for customer’s problems and requests.
In his spare time, Michael enjoys a nice red or you will find him out on his boat catching fish with his family and friends.
Jim Mackintosh
Alliance Automation
Jim is the Elizabeth Catholic Parish’s representative on the College Board. He has been an active member of the Parish since he moved to the area 35 years ago. In addition to his parish role on the Board, Jim is an Electrician by trade and has an Associate Diploma in Electrical Engineering. In 1980 he undertook an apprenticeship at General Motors Holden.
Jim’s experience extends across various industries and he has spent most of his working life working in industrial automation. Jim was part owner of an automation company with 18 employees, recently selling the business to a national engineering company, who he now works for.
Jim has three grown children, all who attended St Columba College. He has a long history of volunteer work with committee positions on the Angle Vale Neighbourhood Watch, Angle Vale Soccer Club, Angle Vale & Districts Sports & Recreation Association, Elizabeth Parish Finance Council and umpiring roles in football, soccer, and cricket.
Jim feels he has been fortunate in his working life, is passionate about the provision of technical education and is keen to contribute to the students and staff of St Patrick’s Technical College.
Tania Materne
Barossa Physiotherapy
Tania has over 35 years’ experience in the Health industry as a Physiotherapist and owned her own business in the Barossa Valley for more than 26 of those. Essentially self-taught in business management, she has ridden the waves of financial, global, personnel and stress challenges and built a thriving, sustainable business.
Tania is an active member of the community, sitting on various boards and committees over the years and volunteering her time over several projects. Learning how hard business can be, she has a passion for youth and start-up businesses, as well as seeing women flourish in their chosen career.
Tania has been an avid supporter of St Patrick’s Technical College since its inception, recently having a son complete his schooling at the College and delights in its successes and growth. She is particularly excited to watch the development of Health courses and more avenues for women to participate.
Our Vision
To be at the forefront of vocational education, nurturing the next generation of industry leaders dedicated to shaping a better world.
Our Mission
St Patrick’s Technical College inspires students for success in their first career. Through a dynamic and innovative learning model grounded in Catholic social teaching and informed by industry, we create exceptional and work ready young adults.