Human on the Inside with WSU’s Dr. Geethani Nair
Human on the Inside. We’re big believers in the power of human skills. But don’t just take our word for it - the evidence for excellence powered by human (‘soft’) skills is everywhere! In this engaging, ever-enlightening series, we speak with industry leaders, innovators and game-changers to learn a little about their personal career journeys, and how human-led strategies, philosophies and cultures are proving a force for good in their working worlds …
Maxme: Welcome Dr. Geethani, and thanks for stepping into the #SuccessIsHuman Spotlight!
You’re currently the Director of Vocational Education and Training at Western Sydney University – The College.
In 1 sentence (ok, we’ll give you 3), what does your role entail?
Geethani Nair: As Director of Vocational Education and Training at Western Sydney University – The College, I lead the design and delivery of industry-aligned, practice-based training programs that empower learners with both technical and human capabilities. While I’m a strong believer in the value of education, my role is fundamentally about building skills for industry—ensuring that what we deliver translates directly into workplace readiness and performance. I collaborate with government, industry, and education partners to drive workforce transformation, so our students are not only qualified but also capable, confident, and career-ready.
M: With over two decades in vocational education, you've led programs across TAFE NSW and the Future Skills Organisation, with a strong focus on aligning training to industry needs—particularly in tech and digital skills. Today, you're Director of Vocational Education and Training at Western Sydney University – The College, and serve on advisory boards for the National Youth Employment Body and the Australian Institute of Advanced Technology, continuing your work at the intersection of education and emerging tech.
How does all this work speak to your personal purpose and what drives you as an individual?
GN: I’m driven by the belief that education should be a catalyst for equity, empowerment, and innovation—but it must lead to real, tangible outcomes. My own direction in life was reshaped by education, which opened doors I never imagined possible. That experience fuels my commitment to bridging the space between learning and doing, especially in fast-changing industries where skills are currency. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on translating education into opportunity—helping individuals transform their futures and enabling communities to thrive through meaningful, work-ready training.
M: Tell us a little about your personal education pathway/s - what led you to where you are now? How closely do your formal qualifications match your current career?
GN: I began my career in civil engineering—a highly technical field where, at the time, technical skills were prioritised far above human ones. As my work took different directions, I realised I was more drawn to the people-development side of the profession, which led me to pursue a Graduate Diploma in Vocational Education and Training, a Master of Information Technology from Monash University, and eventually a Doctor of Education. To fully understand vocational pathways from a learner’s perspective, I also completed practical certifications such as the Certificate IV in Networking and Certificate IV in Website Design. Along the way, I engaged in leadership programs—including women in executive leadership initiatives—through respected institutions like Australian Catholic University. My formal qualifications have not only aligned with but actively shaped my career, giving me both the depth and versatility to lead education strategy at the intersection of skills, innovation, and equity.
M: If you could share one piece of career advice to your 21 year old self it would be ...
GN: Go for the gold—reach for the stars. Don’t wait for permission or for others to endorse you, because often they won’t. Believe in yourself, back your instincts, and capitalise on every opportunity that comes your way. And never underestimate the power of relationships. While many along my path felt threatened and tried to hold me back, a few key people saw my potential and lifted me up—and those moments changed everything. Sometimes, it’s the quiet encouragers who open the biggest doors.
M: Maximising the potential of individuals, communities and businesses through the power of human skills is the reason Maxme exists. Can you tell us a little about the role and / or value of human skills in your workplace or industry right now?
GN: In today’s landscape—where technology is embedded in nearly every aspect of business—many assume that technical skills alone are what drive success. But in my experience, it’s human skills that transform technical capability into long-term, sustainable impact. Technology might create opportunities, but it’s communication, collaboration, adaptability, and empathy that ensure those opportunities benefit the workplace, the workers, and the business as a whole. Across industries like aviation, health, IT, and manufacturing, these human capabilities are the difference between compliance and innovation, between performing a task and leading change. That’s why we embed them into every learning experience we design.
M: Self Awareness sets the critical foundation for all Maxme learning experiences. What’s your strongest trait / personal super power?
GN: Systems thinking is my superpower. I naturally see how things connect—across people, policies, processes—and I use that to build solutions that are strategic and sustainable. It’s a gift that’s helped me lead complex projects and drive real change. But I’ve also learned that not everyone finds that comfortable. At times, my ability to think big and challenge conventional thinking has made some feel threatened or unsure how to respond. Over time, I’ve come to embrace that tension—it’s part of being a change-maker—and I’ve learned to pair that systems lens with empathy, so I can bring people with me rather than around me.
M: And on the flip side, what’s one human / ‘soft’ skill you’ve had to really work on improving over the course of your career?
GN: Early in my career, I couldn’t understand why others didn’t approach achievement the way I did—I was driven, solutions-focused, and always ready to move forward. But I came to realise that people carry fears, past experiences, and competing priorities that shape how they show up. Over time, I had to develop empathy—not just as a concept, but as a daily practice. That meant learning to listen—really listen—with patience and curiosity. Active, empathetic listening has become one of the most important skills in my leadership toolkit. It helps me understand people’s starting points and support them to move forward in ways that feel safe, not forced.
M: If you could share one piece of career advice with recent Uni graduates or candidates keen to work for an organisation like yours, what would it be?
GN: Don’t limit your choices too early. Be a little agitated—stay restless in your learning and open to growth. I remember early in my career saying yes to a short-term training project that had nothing to do with civil engineering, my original field. It felt uncomfortable and unfamiliar, but I threw myself into it—and it changed the entire trajectory of my career. That one choice opened doors I didn’t even know existed. So my advice is: say yes to the stretch opportunities. Whether it’s a side project, short contract, or volunteer role, every experience builds the resilience and perspective that will set you apart. Get curious, not just credentialed.
M: You’ve been granted approval to add one Uni graduate to your business, but have 100 applicants, all with outstanding academic results. How do you find your perfect candidate - what are you looking for?
GN: I’d look for the one who aligns with the ethos of our work—someone who believes in why we do what we do, not just what we do. Academic results are great, but I want someone who brings curiosity, grit, and fresh thinking. Someone who isn’t shaped by the “clock in, clock out” mindset, but is driven by purpose and outcomes. I’d look for a candidate who collaborates well with others, contributes something different, and isn’t afraid to challenge the norm. Most of all, I’d look for evidence of growth—where they’ve taken a risk, stumbled, reflected, and come back stronger. That’s the kind of person who thrives in our environment and helps move it forward.
M: In the words of American philosopher, psychologist, and educational reformer John Dewey, “education is not preparation for life, education is life itself.”
What’s next on your #learning agenda?
GN: At this stage in my career, I’m more focused on creating meaningful impact than climbing the traditional leadership ladder. I’m shifting my perspective to operate more strategically—working from the balcony, so to speak—to influence systems and drive change where it matters most. My current learning is centred on ethical AI and the evolving role of human-machine collaboration in education and work. As technology continues to transform the way we teach, learn, and lead, I believe it’s critical to keep human-centred design at the core. I’m committed to ensuring that as we innovate, we do so with purpose, inclusion, and long-term value in mind.
Dr. Geethani Nair
Leader in Vocational Education and Training
Dr Geethani Nair is the Director of Vocational Education and Training at Western Sydney University – The College. With a career spanning over two decades, she has held senior leadership roles across TAFE NSW, the Future Skills Organisation, and national advisory bodies. Geethani is a systems thinker and changemaker, known for her ability to bridge policy, practice, and people to deliver impactful, industry-aligned education. She holds a Doctor of Education, a Master of Information Technology from Monash University, and has pursued diverse qualifications in vocational training, web design, networking, and executive leadership. Her work focuses on building future-ready workforces by embedding human skills, digital capability, and ethical innovation into every learning experience. Geethani is a strong advocate for equity, purpose-driven learning, and using education as a tool for lasting transformation.
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