SM TAFE in partnership with Rio Tinto and the State Government have collaborated with the WA resources sector to develop the first nationally recognised Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications in automation. These new certificate and micro-credential courses are designed to equip current and future workforces with the much needed formally recognised STEM skills that automation and technology require, and provide new education pathways to employment in the Australian resources sector. As a result of the significant investment by Rio Tinto and through its collaboration with SM TAFE, the WA Government, resource sector training councils and other industry partners including BHP, Roy Hill, FMG, Woodside, Komatsu and Westrac; Australia’s first VET qualifications in automation were developed and accredited in 2018 and 2019.
“Rio Tinto has been proud to lead and sponsor the development of Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications in automation. As a globally recognised leader in innovative thinking, practice and technology, we are excited to work with South Metropolitan TAFE on this pioneering project that will make a long lasting, positive difference to our people and future Western Australian workforces. Through the commitment to our people, their development and VET, this partnership has built a much-needed bridge between STEM and formal education in the workplace. Sufficient skill levels can only be achieved when industry, government and education work together.”