Media release

These employer-focused courses provide practical training tailored to better support new and existing apprentices from diverse backgrounds. This includes women, young people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

As a first-of-its-kind offering, the courses are delivered online through the TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence for employers across engineering, transport and renewable energy sectors.

“The short courses will provide employers with practical strategies to support apprentices from a diverse range of backgrounds through completion of their training and into ongoing employment,” added The Honourable Steve Whan, Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education.

Each microskill in the Supporting Your Manufacturing Apprentice suite provides practical strategies that employers can use in their workplace. Strategies include how to support and mentor young apprentices, and how to build cultural awareness and apply inclusive practices. They also cover the benefits of fostering a positive, safe work environment so apprentices learn, grow and succeed.

Plasser Australia’s Production Manager, Geoff Owen, recognises the critical role of apprentice employers.

“Apprentices are the next generation of skilled tradespeople, and as employers, we play an important role in setting them up for workplace success.

“Free, accessible, online training is an easy way to equip employers with the skills and knowledge needed to help create a more inclusive, productive workplace, critical for attracting and retaining apprentices,” Geoff said.

In addition to the 6 employer-focused short courses, another two microskills have been launched for new and existing manufacturing workers and those looking to enter the industry:

• Literacy for Foundations in the Manufacturing Industry: learn the key skills needed for manufacturing roles, including how to read technical drawings and communicate effectively.

• Digital Essentials for Manufacturing: understand how digital tools and systems keep modern manufacturing moving, and the kinds of tools and platforms used in today’s workplaces.

The TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence are a joint initiative between the Australian Government and NSW Government under the National Skills Agreement.

Enrolments are now open for the 6 online microskills (self-paced short courses) and other microskills and microcredentials across robotic welding, digital technologies for manufacturing, sustainable manufacturing practices, renewable manufacturing, generative design and more, visit: Manufacturing Centres of Excellence: Skills Training at TAFE NSW | TAFE NSW

Media contact: Rachel Ecclestone, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

Keep up to date with what’s happening at TAFE NSW by reading more stories.