The Queensland Government and the Central Queensland University (CQU) will jointly deliver an advance technology and innovation centre in Rockhampton as part of a new strategy designed to create jobs in the agricultural technology, mining and manufacturing industries in regional Queensland.
Innovation Minister Kate Jones said said the $2.8 million partnership aims to prepare local students for careers in industries that are vital to Queensland’s economy, such as mining, agriculture and manufacturing.
“The work we do today with industry and tertiary institutions will keep jobs in Rockhampton,” she said.
“Funding announced today will be used to buy training equipment – like robots, drills and dozers to train students up on the cutting-edge technology they’ll be using out on the job.
“Mining, agriculture and manufacturing will be vitally important to Rockhampton for decades to come. This is a down payment for the future.”
CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp said the funding commitment from the State Government would allow CQUniversity to respond to the needs of industry with the provision of state-of-the-art teaching and training technologies with a specific focus on AgTech, manufacturing innovation, engineering, ICT and design.
“The one-stop centre will be accessible to the community, industry and schools who wish to engage with contemporary technologies, investigate new career opportunities and trial new business ventures providing value-add to the community,” Professor Klomp continued.
“These types of opportunities not only support the advancement of innovative entrepreneurial practice and commercialisation opportunities but also job-creation within our communities.”
Innovation Minister Kate Jones stressed the facility would allow members of the community to engage with contemporary technologies, investigate new career opportunities and trial new business ventures.
“It’s not just about training. We want this place to be a hive of activity – with entrepreneurs testing out new technology and employers coming to poach the next generation of talent,” she said.
“This partnership with CQU will see the government link TAFE, university and high school graduates with some of the world’s leading employers.”
