TAFE NSW – New England Institute and large regional employer Straits Resources Hillgrove Gold have joined forces to deliver a range of mining qualifications to 50 employees.
A booming industry, government incentives, a recruitment drive and a push to build upon existing employee loyalty has led to the training project, which is being delivered throughout 2008.
A mix of new and existing workers are completing qualifications in underground mining, mining processing and mining exploration ranging from Certificate III to IV qualifications.
The work-based training model has been designed to provide Hillgrove Gold Project with qualified trainees quickly and efficiently, by recognising their existing in-house training with a national qualification. All training will be completed by the end of the year.
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‘I’m very impressed that TAFE NSW staff have both understood our requirements and addressed our needs without disrupting productivity,’ said Phil Shields, Resident Manager, Hillgrove Gold.
‘They have incorporated our existing workplace procedures into their training programs and this has meant that our staff are comfortable with the process,’ he said.
Michael D. Leahy, Program Manager, Mining, Primary Industries and Natural Resources Curriculum Centre, said TAFE NSW was proud to collaborate with Hillgrove to address skill shortages in such an important area.
The process involves gathering competency documentation in the workplace and mapping it to each element of the national training package. Gap training is being organised where required.
Mr Leahy developed The Mining Generator, a computerised training model which works by matching competencies in the national training package to existing documentation.
‘This innovative technology-based recognition system minimally disrupts Hillgrove’s productivity because it is built on the mine’s existing workplace training infrastructure,’ Mr Leahy said.
It is flexible enough to be used in other workplaces and industries such as engineering, food processing, manufacturing and civil construction. In fact, any workplace with an existing training regime and available documentation could have the tool tailored for their environment.
Clayton Widders is a Process Plant Operator and is completing the Certificate III in Metalliferous Mining Operations (Processing). He said he was enjoying learning about all aspects of mineral processing from grinding and floating to furnace smelting and casting. Mr Widders has been at Hillgrove Gold for the past six months and had previously worked as a shearer, and as a manager in the waste management field.
‘Working in the mining industry has given me an opportunity to do something different, the money is good and the mine is close to where I live,’ he said. ‘Gaining the qualification provides me with security and the opportunity to further my career.’
