- Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills
The opening today of the new Metro South Engineering Trade Skills Centre in Runcorn will help create pathways for local students into the workforce and on to valued careers, Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, the Hon Karen Andrews said.
Local students and staff in Metro South Engineering Trades Skills Centre can now make full use of the trade training facilities, which have been developed through the Australian Government’s funding commitment of $3.6 million.
“It is great to be here today to open the centre and to see these new facilities first hand,” Minister Andrews said.
“The Metro South Engineering Trades Skills Centre is all about equipping local students with the real skills they need to help them get the jobs that we will need in the future.
“Training centres like this enable local students to pursue vocational pathways and develop skills across a range of fields.
“There are many cities, communities and regions throughout Australia facing skills shortages in trades like boat building, metal fabrication and welding.
“So the skills that students will develop at the Metro South Engineering Trades Skills Centre will not only benefit Runcorn, they will be skills that could potentially put them on a pathway for jobs in industries anywhere in Australia.”
Minister Andrews said the centre incorporates a new trade training facility and includes an engineering workshop, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) safety area, store room, data cupboard and amenities for staff and students.
“The Australian Government is committed to ensuring vocational training meets the needs of industry and employers and to providing students with training, particularly in areas where there are skills shortages.
“Skills training at secondary school provides a basis for students to pursue further training after school or to enter the workplace.
I congratulate the entire school community for its foresight in getting this centre up and running.”