Work has started on Queensland’s (QLD) new Big Build project at Eagle Farm TAFE, which will include specialised robotics, hydrogen, renewable energy and electrotechnology workshops.
The new Big Build $40 million Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing Centre at Eagle Farm TAFE will train and upskill Queensland’s manufacturing workforce to embrace automation and Industry 4.0, the QLD government’s initiatives for the fourth industrial revolution.
“The Eagle Farm TAFE campus specialises in trade-related courses such as automation, instrumentation and control, renewables, plumbing and electrotechnology, telecommunication, and utilities,” Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said.
“Young Queenslanders who first started exploring STEM in primary school are now of an age where they’re seeking careers in Industry 4.0 and the new facility is our response to the escalating demand for training in robotics and advanced manufacturing.
“We want Queensland to be at the forefront of the revolution already underway in the manufacturing sector, which is all about providing sustainable jobs while improving cost, productivity, profitability and operations.”
Forecast for practical completion in late 2024, the centre will improve specialised training in robotics, advanced manufacturing, process instrumentation, renewable technologies such as hydrogen and solar, and telecommunications.
It showcases QLD’s commitment to providing sustainable and future-proof training facilities.
“Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) has been established by this government to future proof Queensland Manufacturing sector,” Manufacturing Skills Queensland chief executive officer Rebecca Andrews said.
“Through collaborating with our stakeholders, including jobseekers, apprentices, workers, unions, and businesses – MSQ will deliver best-practice programs, investments, partnerships and research to support a thriving, diverse and skilled manufacturing industry for all of Queensland.
“The foresight and investment behind the Eagle Farm TAFE Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing Centre is critical for industry futures and MSQ looks forward to working with industry and TAFE Queensland towards delivering our shared goals.”
The centre is targeting a 5 Star Green Buildings rating which demonstrates Australian excellence in its design and construction.
It caters for the increased demand for Advanced Manufacturing skills and training. The Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools (GISP) program has grown from seven participating schools in 2017 to 46 participating schools in 2023 – achieving its target number of participating schools for 2023.
In 2022, more than 2200 students participated in GISP advanced manufacturing-related activities.
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