Automation equipment installed at TAFE
State-of-the-art automation equipment has been installed at South Regional TAFE’s Albany campus in WA.
The equipment will help deliver vital automation skills for local students.
The college’s newly fitted out workshop for autonomous workplace operations is complete with a brand new robotic track that uses radio frequency identification tags to hone in on targets.
It was delivered as part of the WA Government's $25 million investment in new equipment being rolled out across Western Australia’s TAFE network. South Regional TAFE received more than $1.1 million through Stage 1 of the Modern TAFE Equipment Program.
Automation has been identified as a priority training area for South Regional TAFE, with the Albany campus now able to offer industry-relevant training using the latest technology thanks to the new equipment.
Other new automation equipment at the Albany campus includes a drone system, laser cutters, 3D printer, mobile communications unit, an autonomous vehicle with smart controls and a mobile processing plant.
The cost of the Certificate II in Autonomous Workplace Operations is heavily reduced under the government’s “Lower fees, local skills initiative”, keeping training fees low.
All five TAFE colleges are benefiting from the state government’s four-year program to provide new and upgraded training equipment, and ensure that their students can learn on contemporary equipment that meets industry standards.
The investment supports training demand and emerging industry needs, which will help students, apprentices and trainees to become job-ready.
South Regional TAFE’s Albany campus received $438,000 as part of Stage 1 of the training equipment program, while the Collie campus is receiving $677,000.
“The McGowan government is investing heavily to equip regional Western Australians with resources and industry-relevant training, so they finish their studies with skills that are in demand from employers,” said Sue Ellery, Education and Training Minister.
“Automation involves a broad range of technologies and crosses all functions within industry.
“Industries are increasingly transitioning to the use of automation and predictive technology to maximise productivity, so it is important that TAFEs are providing skills in this field.
“Our investment in cutting-edge technology will ensure these students leave TAFE work-ready and prepared for the jobs of the future.”
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