Deputy Premier John Barilaro who officially opened the “first-class training facility”, says it will make a significant contribution towards boosting the skills capability of thousands of young people.
“What I have seen is hugely encouraging as we look to get more people into Vocational Education and Training to address ongoing skills shortages,” he said.
Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Geoff Lee, says the specialist facility will be used to train first year electrician apprentices, with the majority of the organisation’s 550 NSW-based apprentices to commence studying there over the next two years.
The centre is expected to grow to include nearly 500 apprentices and 1,300 post-trade learners each year. In total, 7,000 apprentices and tradespeople will receive electrotechnology training there over the next five years.
Suresh Manickam, CEO of NECA, says it is important for young people to understand the excellent training they receive as part of an electrical apprenticeship, as well as the well-paid and rewarding career they can expect when they qualify.
“We encourage young people, their parents and carers, and teachers and education professionals to visit the facilities to learn about an electrical apprenticeship and the fantastic career that follows,” he said.
Centre to train hundreds
THOUSANDS of young people will benefit thanks to the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) Training and Apprenticeships Centre of Excellence in Chullora.