Heavy vehicle training centre opens following increased demand
Article from ATN Fullyloaded - 7/08/2024
Mackay’s Ooralea Trade Training Centre has officially been further equipped to train the next generation of transport professionals thanks to a new, recently completed $7.5 million upgrade.
The new Heavy Automotive Training Facility at the centre will offer three courses and offer training in diesel fitting, mobile plant operation and heavy vehicle maintenance.
The available courses are:
- Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Diesel Fitting)
- Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology
- Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
The new centre features modern specialty training equipment including an air brake simulator, hydraulic training stations, transmission training simulators, diesel engine benches and an air suspension training program for trucks.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert says the upgraded heavy vehicle training centre will be crucial in ensuring the local contingent of future transport professionals are not lost to the Central Queensland region.
“Final year apprentices will be able to complete their training right here in Mackay, instead of traveling to Rockhampton or Emerald for specialist training,” Gilbert says.
“Boosting training capacity will create a pipeline of qualified heavy automotive professionals – crucial to keeping our growing region’s industries operating and keeping jobs local.
“This upgrade is making high quality training more accessible in our region and creating pathways to good local jobs.”
Apprentice numbers in the Central Queensland region for these qualifications has grown by over a quarter in the past 12 months, with mechanical and mobile plant technology disciplines making up two of Mackay’s top five VET disciplines.
Vice-Chancellor and President of CQUniversity Professor Nick Klomp says the new upgrades will help position the contingent of apprentices and students as industry-leaders across Australia.
“We are delighted to celebrate the opening of this new facility and to now provide local apprentices in the region with a purpose-built facility that houses the latest technology and equipment,” Klomp says.
“Using state-of-the-art resources and equipment will ensure our apprentices are being trained with the latest and best tools, better preparing them for their future careers and the needs and expectations of industry.”
The heavy automotive facility extension now covers 1600 square metres and will allow for up to 400 students to be trained for local industries.
