Chisholm Institute has launched new world-class facilities at its Dandenong campus, ready to train the next generation of workers for Australia’s advanced manufacturing industry.
New computer numerically controlled (CNC) equipment was officially unveiled by The Hon Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills and Training at an event attended by industry leaders, teachers and students. The upgrade was made possible by a $1.95M investment from the Australian Government’s TAFE Technology Fund and forms part of a multi-year project by Chisholm to upgrade engineering learning spaces at the campus.
After cutting the red ribbon, the Ministers received a demonstration of how the new equipment will be used to train students in precision manufacturing. They also enjoyed the chance to speak with students benefiting from Free TAFE programs.
Melbourne’s south east corridor employs around a quarter of Victoria’s manufacturing workforce, hosting nationally significant manufacturing clusters that outperform every other Australian region on scale, output and growth.
As technologies evolve towards highly automated, computer-driven processes, the demand for specialist technicians is growing. Industry group AMTIL estimates the sector will need an additional 3,000 workers in the coming years. With these upgrades, Chisholm can train around 800 students each year with the advanced skills the industry requires.
One way Chisholm is making these learning and career opportunities more accessible is through pathways. Whether it’s a school leaver seeking an apprenticeship or an experienced tradie looking to upskill, there is a door open to the right qualifications, from certificates and short courses, all the way up to degrees.
Board Chair, Dr Gillian Miles AM, said the investment supports Chisholm's vision of empowering local communities through education.
“The modernisation of our engineering training facilities exemplifies how Chisholm offers an excellent learning environment that meets the needs of industry, students and the local community," said Dr Miles.
Chisholm’s Chief of Education, Conor Mullan, says the announcement is timely.
“With strong demand for technical skills, there’s never been a better time to study engineering. Best of all, training is available right here in Dandenong, at the heart of Victoria’s manufacturing industry,” said Mr Mullan.
Chisholm’s acting Associate Director of Trades, Matthew Baker, says the new machinery positions Chisholm at the cutting edge of advanced skills training.
“The new CNC equipment enables our students to learn in an environment that reflects the workplace, helping them become highly skilled, job-ready technicians,” said Mr Baker.
