ResTech, a joint venture between Ampcontrol and University of Newcastle, was officially opened by the Honourable Ed Husic MP, Minister for Industry and Science on Thursday 21 September.
ResTech aims to accelerate the development and commercialisation of new cutting-edge technology and solutions for the energy, infrastructure, and resources industries. With more than 40 people located on campus, ResTech allows for maximal interaction between staff and students with cutting-edge industry partners.
As an accredited Research Service Provider, ResTech also provides opportunities for engineering students to work with industry on real-world challenges to become life-ready graduates who are community-minded, resilient and ready for work.
From stand-alone power systems designed to replace the traditional poles and wires grid connections, to world-first battery electrical vehicle innovation to support the electrification of mining operations, ResTech utilises design thinking to solve complex global problems in energy.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky explained said the University is partnering with industry to support students and the region in the clean energy transition.
“Our University has worked with Ampcontrol over a number of years and ResTech is the result of our strong partnership,” Alex said.
“We are absolutely committed to our regions and are perfectly positioned to provide the industry partnerships, workforce facilities, leading researchers and technology expertise to help with the transition and innovation of industries across the Hunter.
“We are also passionate about ensuring our students are work-ready, so the opportunities for our engineering students to gain experience at ResTech while working on challenging research projects for industry are invaluable. It means our graduates have the practical skills and industry connections to thrive in the workplace when they graduate.”
Amongst the students using the new space is Tiana Leck, Research & Development Engineer at ResTech, who is in her final year of Bachelor of Medical and Mechatronics Engineering.
Her showcased project builds critical technology for home wind energy collection, moving closer to allowing people to install their own portable and affordable renewable energy systems.
Managing Director and CEO of Ampcontrol, Rod Henderson said they’re excited to be collaborating with the University of Newcastle on the joint initiative that will further facilitate projects like this.
“ResTech brings together two entities who are united in their goal to deliver energy solutions which will help make global net zero a reality,” Rod said.
“The engineering smarts and advanced manufacturing capability of Ampcontrol through ResTech will contribute great value to finding innovative solutions to decarbonise.”
ResTech has 24 dedicated research and development engineers, including students. Throughout 2023 there have been 16 university students undertaking industrial student placements and 16 final year projects being completed through ResTech.
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Pictured L-R: Prof. Alex Zelinsky AO, University of Newcastle Vice Chancellor and President; Rod Henderson, Ampcontrol Managing Director and CEO; Hon. Ed Husic MP, Minister for Industry and Science; Sharon Claydon MP, Federal Member for Newcastle; Hon. Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry; Minister for International Development and the Pacific; and Member for Shortland.
