Industry representative Weld Australia has introduced a new suite of learning resources for the Manufacturing and Engineering (MEM) Training Package.
The resources were designed to help deliver the 12 welding and fabrication units of competency in the MEM Training Package.
Geoff Crittenden, chief executive officer of Weld Australia, said the resources seek to simplify the learning process for students, teachers, and training institutes while placing the student at the heart of the learning process.
“Weld Australia believes that a national industry, which has a national learning package, needs national learning resources. Whether you’re an apprentice in Kalgoorlie, Ultimo or Davenport, you should have access to the same, high-quality training. Our goal is to help ensure that high-quality welder learning is consistent across the country,” Crittenden said.
The resources come amid a record growth in the demand for welders in Australia and as labour shortages inhibit the growth of the country’s welding industry.
Weld Australia members said 50 per cent of Australia’s welding workshops are currently operating at 80 per cent of their capacity or below, primarily due to a lack of skilled workers.
“This labour shortage comes as no surprise. Weld Australia has been calling for urgent action for over five years. We estimate that Australia will be at least 70,000 welders short by 2030,” Crittenden said.
“And yet, the number of welding trade workers in Australia dropped by 8 per cent in the course of just five years, and completion rates of welding apprenticeships continue to fall by as much as 23 per cent annually. It is essential that welder training is revolutionised with online, accessible and engaging learning resources.”
The MEM resources were developed with students, teachers, and training organisations in mind and offer a user-friendly interface, diverse delivery methods, and audited and accurate materials.
The resources are completely online and accessible via computer, phone, or any mobile device.
