Leading Caterpillar dealer WesTrac is set to complete the expansion of its WesTrac Technology Training Centre in Collie by November.
The upgraded facility will offer cutting-edge opportunities for practical, hands-on education in autonomous machinery and mining technology, ensuring the future workforce is equipped with the skills needed in the evolving resources and construction sectors.
During a visit to the facility, Premier of Western Australia Roger Cook praised the project, which has been supported by a $1 million grant from the Collie Futures Industry Development Fund.
WesTrac CEO Jarvas Croome expressed his appreciation for the State Government’s support, noting the importance of the training centre’s role in workforce development.
“As the only autonomous training centre in the Southern Hemisphere, our facility offers industry-leading training in a safe and controlled environment,” Croome said.
“The demand for our training has skyrocketed as mining and construction companies seek to educate the next generation of their workforce.”
The expanded facilities will include two new buildings with five additional training rooms, a Virtual Reality room, a Remote Operating Station room, and practical labs for training in Cat® MineStar Technology.
These advancements are designed to meet the rising demand for expertise in autonomous and electrified machinery.
A highlight of the new facility will be a Cat D10 Dozer equipped with remote operating capabilities, allowing students to control the machine from a classroom 500 metres away.
This setup replicates real-world mining environments, enhancing the authenticity of the training experience.
“WesTrac and Caterpillar are at the forefront of technology-driven training,” said Croome. “Since opening in 2020, our centre has trained over 900 individuals, and we expect even more demand as industries turn to technology and electrification.”
The expansion has been supported by the Motivation Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that helps young people gain practical training and secure employment.
Foundation members have played a key role in the project, performing earthworks and contributing to the construction of the new training areas.
Through its partnership with the Motivation Foundation, WesTrac aims to continue providing employment pathways for young people.
“Since commencing in Collie, Motivation Foundation have successfully helped over 50 local young people gain employment. Through our partnership with the Motivation Foundation and this expansion of the WesTrac Technology Training Centre, we hope to ensure this pathway continues for young people continues,” Croome added.
The WesTrac Technology Training Centre’s approach to education was recently recognised with the Large Employer of the Year award at the WA Training Awards.
For more information about the WesTrac Technology Training Centre, visit www.westrac.com.au/training/wttc.
