Construction of a new specialist training facility at North Metropolitan TAFE's Midland campus has begun, which will see a dedicated space to train industrial conveyor belt technicians.
The $2 million Belt Splicing Workshop will meet industry demand in Western Australia's thriving resources sector, addressing skill gaps and increasing the supply of a locally skilled workforce.
Industrial conveyor belt technicians repair, maintain and install conveyor belts used in many industries including mining, particularly for the transportation and loading of iron ore.
The shed-style workshop was designed with industry input, and will be fitted out with specialist equipment including conveyor belt, splicing tables and reels, ensuring students receive hands-on training.
Armstrong Parkin Architects designed the new facility, with construction undertaken by Perth-based LKS Constructions.
The specialist training facility will support the delivery of a Certificate III in Polymer Processing (Conveyor Belt Maintenance and Repair) - a new course to North Metropolitan TAFE.
Construction is expected to be completed by October 2021, with training commencing in Semester 1, 2022.
The Midland area was identified in the McGowan Government's Review of Skills, Training and Workforce Development, undertaken in response to COVID-19, as being a key area for skills, training and employment investment.
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"The Midland workshop will be used to train apprentices in the operation and maintenance of large industrial conveyor belts - a critical skill in industries such as mining and logistics.
"It is vital that we support training for Western Australia's resources sector, an industry that delivers significant benefits to our local economy and has the potential to employ even more locally skilled workers.
"The $2 million project is in addition to the McGowan Government's record $167.4 million commitment to upgrade TAFE colleges as part of the WA Recovery Plan."
As stated by Midland MLA Michelle Roberts:
"No government has done more in recent history to invest in trade training in Midland. This is yet another brilliant investment in providing skills and opportunities for our local workforce.
"It'll equip local people to get the skills they need to gain employment in some of the most in demand industries in our State, setting them up for jobs and the future."
