A TAFE NSW spokesperson has confirmed that the $3.36 million upgrades will be completed by the first week of February, in time for the new influx of students.

"The exciting upgrades to TAFE NSW Gunnedah are continuing - we've had teams on the ground over the holiday season progressing work on the new facilities, which we are aiming to complete by the end of January 2020 to enable education delivery for the beginning of semester one," the spokesperson said.

"The project will deliver new, modern learning spaces to allow TAFE NSW to offer in-demand courses in mining, building and construction trades, as well as a new specialist light automotive workshop."

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Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee has also confirmed that the new certificate II in vocational skills, engineering and electrotechnology/automotive will go ahead if there is enough interest from locals.

Minister Lee will fund the course through a $200,000 Smart and Skilled initiative grant, including full qualifications in skills for work and vocation pathways, and resources and infrastructure pathways.

The course will allow 20 locals aged 17 to 24 to upskill or reskill and be job-ready for employers.

"The highly targeted program, developed in consultation between TAFE NSW and industry, provides important upskilling opportunities for local people to be able to take advantage of employment opportunities," Mr Lee said.

"Work experience and mentoring delivered as part of the program will support local students increase their skills, experience and confidence.

"TAFE NSW is currently finalising the program in consultation with local industry, with the program scheduled to launch in February 2020."

Those interested in the pre-apprenticeship course should contact Gunnedah Shire Council, the chamber via Facebook, or a local job agency such as Joblink Plus, Jobs Australia or BEST Employment to register.

Semester one course offerings are now open, and locals can enrol via the TAFE NSW website.