The extreme skills shortage in the plastic composites and fibreglass area was proving a challenge for RPC Technologies, a leading supplier of corrosion-resistant structural fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP). In response, TAFE NSW – Hunter Institute joined forces with RPC to customise a course to train new staff for the company, which will undertake the pipe work for Sydney’s planned desalination plant.
Forsythes (a recruitment company used by RPC) engaged Wesley Uniting Employment to source long-term unemployed candidates who needed work and were ready to undertake vocational education and training.
A flexible course was tailored from national competencies in the Certificate II in Plastic Composites which focused on skill development in fibreglassing and laminating.
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‘Following consultation with all concerned, we developed a customised course that specifically met the requirements of our client,’ said Ross Mitchell, Head Teacher of Marine Craft Construction and Composite Technology at Hunter Institute.
Trevor Hopewell, RPC Production Manager, said the process had been extremely rewarding for all concerned and the first graduates had already commenced paid work with the company.
‘We are very happy with the first batch of graduates and the training provided has ensured that all graduates have developed specific job-ready skills,’ Mr Hopewell said. ‘They are very employable and we look forward to more fully-trained staff in the near future.’
