A new Diploma of Applied Technologies launched today will help train the skilled workers NSW needs to continue building its advanced manufacturing economy.
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said advanced manufacturing was a central component of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan.
“NSW boasts world-leading advanced manufacturing capacity across a range of sectors and the Government is supporting this from our industry precincts such as the Western Sydney Aerotropolis through to training initiatives such as this diploma.”
“Our manufacturing industry in NSW is undergoing a transformation known as the fourth industrial revolution, or Industry 4.0 and this course qualifies graduates in necessary disciplines like networking, big data, cloud computing and digital control systems,” Mr Ayres said.
“Embracing advanced technologies will be vital to ongoing profitability and competitive advantage but companies need a comprehensive strategy to manage equipment, processes, supply chain, sales and – most importantly – their workforce.”
Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the training will be gold standard.
“New qualifications like this Diploma of Applied Technologies will be a crucial part of ensuring NSW has the right skills mix to become one of the world’s leading digital economies,” Mr Lee said.
The qualification is being rolled out by the NSW Government in collaboration with Ai Group and Manufacturing Skills Australia. It is suitable for new or existing employees, with assessment conducted via work-based projects.
Head of Ai Group in NSW Mark Goodsell said it was designed to address skill gaps created by the big changes shaking up global manufacturing.
“Industry needs people with practical skills who understand emerging technologies,” Mr Goodsell said.
“These are people who can physically connect machines and equipment to each other via the cloud and devise meaningful ways to capture and use the ensuing data streams – key drivers of productivity and innovation across the economy.
“The Diploma is targeted at the para-professional and technician level, creating new pathways into professional qualifications. It can also be delivered in conjunction with an apprenticeship, providing both practical and high-level skills and breathing new life into the apprenticeship model.”
Two pilot courses conducted by SkillsLab have commenced in the Hunter Region and Western Sydney, with a second intake scheduled to begin in September.
More information is available here: https://www.aigroup.com.au/policy-and-research/businesspolicy/industry-transformation/higher-apprenticeships-national-march-2020/