Training for Bunbury’s automotive apprentices is moving into high gear with new equipment unveiled at South West Regional College of
Training for Bunbury’s automotive apprentices is moving into high gear with new equipment unveiled at South West Regional College of TAFE.
Western Australian Training Minister Peter Collier visited the college’s heavy duty automotive training centre at Sylvan Way, Bunbury, and viewed $2million of new training equipment.
Collier says the 206 automotive apprentices at the campus would now be able to learn using industry relevant tools.
“Developments in the automotive industry move fast and it is important that our apprentices have access to the right tools and equipment in their off-the-job training,” the Minister says.
“The new equipment includes a state-of-the-art $600,000 DEGEM system – a computerised diagnostic tool which students use to learn how to test engines.
“A range of heavy duty vehicles including a $300,000 emission-controlled truck has also been purchased to replace old infrastructure which was previously donated by industry.
“Other new equipment includes a heavy duty combined brake tester and wheel aligner, smoke meters for testing emissions on diesel engines and alternator, starter motor and hydraulics test benches.”
Collier says the new items were part of a $13.35million upgrade of trade training equipment at TAFE colleges around Western Australia.
“This is about ensuring training technology in TAFE colleges keeps pace with innovations in industry,” he says.
South West Regional College of TAFE has 120 heavy duty automotive apprentices and 86 light duty automotive apprentices.