Navantia Australia signed yesterday a memorandum of understanding with TAFE SA and the Welding Technology Institute of Australia (WTIA) to establish an Intelligent Welder Training Facility in Adelaide.
The facility, equipped with the latest augmented reality simulators and welding systems, will be used to run accredited assessments, up-skill tradespeople and boost supply of ‘gate-ready’ welding graduates to the local defence shipbuilding industry. It will form the core of the Defence Welding Hub, being established by WTIA to provide training to the defence industry in Adelaide using the latest advances in welder training technology.
Navantia Australia managing director Donato Martinez said the success of Australia’s continuous naval shipbuilding program requires the engagement and development of a highly skilled and well-qualified workforce to maintain the highest international standards.
“In order to begin construction of the Future Frigates in 2020 we need to set the foundations now, particularly the skilled welders who are required at the very beginning of the shipbuilding process,” he said.
WTIA CEO Geoff Crittenden said the institute was increasingly aware of the potential shortfall of internationally recognised welders required to deliver Australia’s ambitious $90 billion shipbuilding program.
“This facility will grow an internationally certified workforce and identify skills gaps to allow for the development of future training programs,” he said.
TAFE SA chief executive Robin Murt said the facility will enable young people to start developing their skills with a Certificate II in Engineering in high school, complete an apprenticeship and become welders certified to international standards (ISO9606).
“They can continue to work as master ship welders or follow training pathways to exciting and varied careers in leadership, management or professional engineering,” Murt said.