Ms Penton, a passionate Cootamundra community member, will next week take over as institute director of TAFE NSW Riverina Institute, her new role seeing her oversee 20 campuses.

Very excited and looking forward to the challenges which lay ahead Ms Penton is replacing former institute director Rosemary Campbell who recently retired from the role after 13 years in the job.

“It is a fantastic opportunity and an amazing challenge for the next part of my career,” Ms Penton said.

“It is a big region I’ll be covering, taking in campuses from Griffith, Tumut, Albury and Lake Cargelligo.”

Although the job is based in Wagga, Ms Penton said she will still be seen around Cootamundra.

“It’s a place that’s close to my heart,” she said.

“I will always feel connected to Cootamundra plus I have children and grandchildren living here so I’ll be back regularly.”

Ms Penton will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the position, with more than 23 years in the vocational education and training sector.

Serving in the role of Head of Campus for more than 15 years, as well as a number of other leadership roles across the institute, including relieving roles as Institute Director and Head of Campus Wagga, Ms Penton is well-equipped for a challenging role ahead.

Throughout the years Ms Penton has achieved many things, including being the driving force behind the long-established training and consulting arrangement with the NSW Rural Fire Service and has played a leading role in the development of the Centre for Emergency Services Management Training based at the Cootamundra, Young and Tumut campuses.

Ms Penton said she is excited by the opportunity to lead Riverina Institute and looks forward to building on the institute’s already stellar reputation as a world class training provider and regional stimulus for growth.

“I believe that TAFE, and in particular Riverina Institute, is part of the fabric of the communities and industries we serve,” she said.