March 2008 News
TAFE has training covered at Mining Expo
Welding program to address shortage of qualified welders in region
TAFE students put their trade skills to the test
'Never too old to study at Mount Isa TAFE'
TAFE supporting the business community
TAFE has training covered at Mining Expo
17 March 2008
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE will have the mining industry's training needs covered at the 2008 Xstrata Mount Isa Mining Expo.
The institute will continue to set a high standard with its exhibits and displays during the three day Expo and a number of exciting activities, displays and exhibits are also planned to keep the TAFE site humming.
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE Acting Institute Director Gary Kinnon invited mining industry trainers, employers and employees to visit the TAFE site at the Expo.
"We will have a number of our teachers and business development staff at the Expo who will be available to discuss training options and strategies with mining industry employers and trainers," Mr Kinnon said.
He said the Expo was also an excellent opportunity for employees and people interested in moving into a job in the booming mining sector to come and talk to TAFE staff.
"Mount Isa Institute of TAFE will continue to support industry to increase the number of tradespeople in the local workforce by delivering quality training that is responsive to the unique needs of the region."
Mr Kinnon said that in addition to the growing demand for apprenticeships and traineeships, many enquiries received are from businesses wanting to up-skill their existing workers.
"More frequently we're creating programs that are tailored to the needs of individual workplaces," she said.
"Skills training is being offered in a variety of areas including electrical, mechanical, fitting, diesel fitting, metal fabrication, automotive, hospitality, children's services, community services, business services, information technology and training and assessment."
Mr Kinnon said it was important for people to continue upgrading their skills qualifications to a higher level.
"Those who complete higher-level training with TAFE benefit from increased work and pay opportunities," he said.
"Holding a qualification at Certificate III level or higher is a direct pathway to secure employment.
"Research shows that over 80 per cent of people who have a tertiary qualification are employed. This compares to an employment rate of 70 per cent for people who have completed Certificate I or II qualifications.
"In addition, there is only a relatively small income difference between university graduates and vocational education and training graduates who hold a Certificate III or higher qualification, in the same occupational categories.
"So, we can clearly see that getting a TAFE qualification is really a good way of not just getting a job but of getting one that pays."
If you are interested in finding out how TAFE can help you, pop in and see them at the Mining Expo or call them 07 4744 9999 - more possibilities for more people.
Media contact: Executive Officer 07 4744 9964.
Welding program to address shortage of qualified welders in region
14 March 2008
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE has developed a welding program to help address the shortage of qualified welders in the region.
Acting Institute Director said TAFE delivers industry relevant training to give participants the skills in demand that can help them in the workplace or enter the workforce.
"Participants by completing the set competencies of the program receive national accreditation for those competencies."
"These competencies will provide the knowledge required for preparing materials and carrying out routine arc welding as well as selecting and setting up welding equipment, carrying out the welding and inspecting for and correcting defects" he said.
"Mount Isa Institute of TAFE will continue to support industry by delivering quality training that is responsive to the unique needs of the region."
To find out more about this program, Mount Isa Institute of TAFE is hosting an information session:
|
Event |
Date |
Time |
Location |
Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Information session |
Wednesday 19 March 2008 |
6:00pm - 7:30pm |
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE |
|
If you would like to know more about how TAFE can help you - call 07 4744 9999 - more possibilities for more people.
Media contact: Executive Officer 07 4744 9964.
TAFE students put their trade skills to the test
14 March 2008
Nine electrical apprentices from Mount Isa Institute of TAFE The apprentices, all aged 24 and under, will be putting their trade skills to the test when they compete at the WorldSkills Australia Regional trials next week (Wednesday 19 March and Thursday 20 March).
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE is the only TAFE Queensland Institute in North Queensland to compete in the Electrotechnology category in the area of Electrical Installations and Electrical Control.
Acting Institute Director, Gary Kinnon said the competition tests the apprentices' skills over a period of two days and is quite rigorous.
"I'm confident however that the Mount Isa Institute of TAFE apprentices will be prepared, ready for the challenge and will give a good account of themselves"
"WorldSkills Australia regional competitions were a wonderful way to recognise the vitality, dedication and talent of our regions young apprentices."
"WorldSkills competitions have been conducted for at least the last 30 years."
"We are honoured to have the opportunity to hold competitions of this standing at the institute and invite all employers and other interested parties to come along and see the standard of competition and skills exhibited."
"The WorldSkills regional competition will provide a unique opportunity for participants to test their work skills against those of their peers locally and nationally.
"It will be rewarding to see the young apprentices transform through the challenge of competition.
Electrical teacher, Bob Kalik said competitors were graded on time and accuracy, with points taken off for mistakes or for going over time.
They will be set two tasks - a wiring exercise for a typical domestic electrical installation and a control wiring exercise which involves relays and interlocking switches.
He said interlocking switches related to powering different appliances in separate conditions.
"For example, if I don't want to be able to turn the (refrigerative) air-conditioners on if the evaporative is working" Mr Kalik said. "You can electronically lock things out to do what you want"
Regional apprentices from Queensland have regularly represented Australia at the international finals with distinction. I believe this is due to the range of work and the adaptability of our apprentices in country areas.
I would hope that there is sufficient interest for competitions to be conducted in other trade areas in the future at Mount Isa.
The winners of the Northern Regional Finals will progress to the National WorldSkills competition to be held in Sydney in 2008. With national competition winners becoming members of Australia's best young trade and skill champions who will travel overseas to Canada to represent their country.
Media contact: Executive Officer 07 4744 9964
'Never too old to study at Mount Isa TAFE'
6 March 2008
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE student Grace Bunton is a trainee in the Aged Care industry and is testament that you are 'never too old' to study.
Ms Bunton commenced her studies (Certificate III in Aged Care Work) as a mature student after not studying formally since leaving school many years ago.
Grace is currently working as a respite care provider for the frail aged and for children with disabilities with Blue Care Respite Support and has been encouraged and support by her manager to undertake a traineeship.
Grace said that this opportunity has been a great challenge and has enabled her to explore new boundaries and opportunities.
"My career aspirations are to be able to remain in the workforce for as long as I am able and to continuously improve myself to be an effective and efficient worker"
"Through the guidance and support provided, my confidence has built and I soon believed that I could do anything I set my mind to" Ms Bunton said.
"This course opens doors for understanding the dynamics of ageing and gives insight into the ways in which one can achieve optimum life style quality"
"Through this program I have an increased self awareness and have further developed my learning skills - and know I have the ability to do anything!" she said.
"TAFE has provided me with the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence to secure employment in the aged care industry. I was surprised, as I didn't think this would be possible as a mature aged student,"
"Your life is what you want it to be. The barriers are of your own making - so jump over them and live life to the fullest! Enjoy the journey" Ms Bunton said.
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE Acting Director, Gary Kinnon, said the Aged Care program serves an important role in the community and Mount Isa Institute of TAFE has a number of different training options for the aged care industry workers.
"The Certificate III in Aged Care Work program is designed for people who may be already in the aged care industry who want to upgrade their skills, people who may have left the industry but would like to rejoin and workers keen to get into aged care work for the first time."
He said other study options included a Diploma of Nursing (Pre-enrolment) and a number of courses in different aspects of community services work.
Another benefit of studying through Mount Isa Institute of TAFE was the possibility of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
"RPL means consideration is given to your life and work experiences as well as formal and informal training. Credit can be given for previous study or work experience," he said.
"Our Aged Care teachers provide a supportive environment to bring the best out in students such as Grace.
"Grace is to be commended for her positive attitude and hard work she has applied to her studies," Mr Kinnon said.
Aged Care teacher, Tanya Weeks said the turnaround in Grace's confidence and self esteem was wonderful, she really enjoys working and has a positive outlook on her workplace environment.
"Grace was provided one-on-one support in the initial phases of her study program, but has gone ahead leaps and bounds since."
"Grace is an inspiration to the community, proving that it is never too late to learn a new course and pursue your dreams, goals and career pathways."
"Mount Isa Institute of TAFE provides quality, flexible training services to help people improve their skills and job prospects, no matter what their aged or experience level," Ms Weeks said.
"Grace is half way through her studies and I look forward to seeing Grace further develop her skills and increase her knowledge in all aspects relating to aged care industry"
If you would like to know more about how TAFE can help you - please call 07 4744 9999 - more possibilities for more people.
Media contact: Executive Officer 07 4744 9964.
TAFE supporting the business community
5 March 2008
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE has launched a new suite of vocational education programs designed to meet the training needs of professionals in the workplace; and small business programs designed to assist current and future small business owners upgrade their skills and improve their business.
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE Acting Director Gary Kinnon said the new suite of programs has been developed to help experienced employees quickly gain the practical, professional-level knowledge and skills they required to further their careers.
"The range of accelerated professional training programs provides business and industry with management training options to help upgrade the skills of supervisors, team leaders and middle-managers," Mr Kinnon said.
"Feedback from industry has allowed Mount Isa Institute of TAFE to identify a significant gap in the training market and respond with an appropriate training solution," he said.
"Our research indicated businesses across a variety of industries needed a flexible, cost-effective, relevant and integrated training solution suited to existing staff wishing to progress into management.
"In addition, our research has showed graduates require practical, work-based skills to help increase their employment prospects."
Programs available are:
Certificate IV in Business (Administration) - improves opportunities for senior supervisory or management positions in chosen area of specialisation. Learn advanced skills in business administration. Elective subject areas include computing, management and operations.
Certificate IV in Business (Front Line Management) - is ideal for those looking to manage the Front Line or "coal face" of a business. This program covers all the areas of the day-to-day running of front line management and includes staffing matters, organisational skills and planning, project management and customer service.
Certificate IV in Business (Small Business Management) - is ideal for those looking to start and / or manage a small business. This program covers all the areas of day-to-day running of a small business that includes staffing matters, financial planning, organisational skills, legals, researching markets and customer service
Business Services Teacher, Karen Fainges said programs have been designed to help those who are already busy with work.
"These programs are completely flexible with content being able to be delivered online or via workbook in the comfort of your home or workplace with phone and email support. Face-to-face classes will also be run from the Mount Isa campus" she said.
"If you are new to online learning - there is no need to worry. Many people are hesitant when initially interacting with a computer"
"TAFE can assist beginners to get the skills they need through a bridging computing course" Ms Fainges said.
"We can tailor programs to suit your specific needs - and invite you to attend our information session to get more information and discuss your needs"
An information session will be held:
|
Event |
Date |
Time |
Location |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Information session |
Tuesday 11 March 2008 |
6:00pm - 7:00pm |
Mount Isa Institute of TAFE |
If you would like to know more about how TAFE can help you - call 07 4744 9999 - more possibilities for more people.
Media contact: Executive Officer 07 4744 9964.
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