CDU researcher recognised for VET research

The Australasian Vocational Education and Training (VET) Research Association has presented its Ray Barker Award for only the sixth time in the past twenty years to a Charles Darwin University (CDU) adjunct researcher. 

The award recognises distinguished service to the VET research community and long-term impact of the winner’s research contribution.

Dr Don Zoellner, an adjunct research associate with CDU’s Northern Institute, received the honour at the AVETRA annual national conference in Melbourne last month.

Building on more than 50 years’ experience in the Northern Territory education, Dr Zoellner commenced his PhD studies following his retirement from the CDU Pro-Vice-Chancellor VET role in 2010. 

Since that period, Dr Zoellner has presented his research findings at more than 40 events including the biennial Journal of VET conference held at Oxford University as well as social enterprise conferences in Belgium and England.

He has been a member of numerous NT and national VET-related committees and boards and uses his research-based expertise in policy development and implementation to ensure decisions are evidence-based.

Dr Zoellner said this award recognises the influence his work and research has had on the VET sector and the value of combining research expertise with lived VET delivery experience in regional, remote and First Nations settings. 

“The research and work I do through committees and boards always aims to improve the quality and relevance of the VET sector to its 5.1 million students and improving productivity,” Dr Zoellner said. 

Dr Zoellner currently sits on the National VET Regulator Advisory Council and is the Independent Chair of the Industry Skills Advisory Council NT Board.