Pilot launches pathway to a highly skilled workforce

In a Queensland first, a new higher-level apprenticeship at TAFE is preparing our future workforce for advanced and emerging technology industries.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman visited Eagle Farm TAFE today to launch the Higher-Level Apprenticeships Pilot that will see more than 40 students in Brisbane and North Queensland undertake a Diploma of Applied Technologies.

“We have a plan: Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs,” Ms Fentiman said.

“Our plan for economic recovery is to invest in the skills and training needed for the in-demand jobs now and into the future.

“As we transition into a post-COVID economy, we know skilling Queenslanders will be a priority. This is about growing a new generation of workers in Queensland.

“The new Higher-Level Apprenticeship qualification will continue to provide the hands-on learning of a traditional apprenticeship combined with the cutting-edge training needed for Industry 4.0.

“We are ensuring Queenslanders are skilled up for more jobs in more industries.”

The Palaszczuk Government invested $300,000 in this pilot and partnered with TAFE Queensland and Ai Group to develop and manage the project and find recruits.

A range of employers have signed up for the pilot ensuring we have true industry collaboration as we develop a training model to prepare highly skilled workers.

TAFE Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mary Campbell said being the state’s first training provider to deliver the Diploma of Applied Technologies made the pilot extremely exciting.

“The pilot will ensure Queensland workforces have access to the new and innovative training techniques needed to keep our state’s industries at the forefront of the new digital future,” Mrs Campbell said.

“The pilot will provide vital training pathways for Queensland businesses to re-skill and up-skill their current workforce and enable them to take advantage of the new technologies and opportunities that Industry 4.0 will provide.”

Ai Group Queensland Head Rebecca Andrews said Ai Group will continue to be at the forefront of encouraging industry to embrace new digital technologies.

“We believe that if we can develop new innovative programs which combine traditional trade skills with high-level skills in new technologies, it will breathe new life into the apprenticeship system and offer career opportunities to rival those for university graduates,” Ms Andrews said.

“The fact the program generated so much interest from businesses throughout the state underlined the high demand industry has for these skills.

“Queensland businesses are ready to invest in their people and unlock the opportunities that Industry 4.0 creates.’’

Skills Lab will assist with training delivery and General Manager Laura Mabikafola said the diploma supports Queensland organisations to explore new avenues using technology, including finding solutions to tough problems.

“This is an incredibly exciting, leading edge, nationally-accredited course which will be highly beneficial for those organisations wanting to invest in building the skills needed for the future,” Ms Mabikafola said.

For further information visitwww.desbt.qld.gov.au or call 1300 369 935.

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ENDS

Media Contact:          Inga Williams              0439 949 719