Regional Development Australia (RDA) Hunter and Pennant Australasia has announced a new partnership that will provide Hunter high school students with hands-on training and contextualised learning for aviation and aerospace careers in the Hunter’s defence industry.
A ceremony held in November at FighterWorld, Williamtown, saw Pennant formally hand-over three Generic Hand-skills Trainers (GenSkill) acquired by RDA Hunter as part of the partnership that also involves Airforce, Defence NSW, FighterWorld, TAFE NSW, and the region’s defence industry.
The event also included specialised GenSkill training for ten partner high school engineering educators and two TAFE NSW trainers.
Developed and produced in the UK and assembled at Pennant Wagga Wagga, GenSkill is used to support military-specific and civil training at aeronautical engineering colleges and academies around the world.
The device simulates generic aircraft equipment, components and systems and allows students to apply their technical knowledge in a practical way.
It is supported by task-cards, student manuals and teaching support material and will be used in TAFE delivered Aeroskills EVET training and complement other secondary subject areas like Engineering Studies.
RDA Hunter’s Director Regional Development and EO, Trevor John, said the organisation is pleased to welcome Pennant Australasia as a significant new industry skilling partner.
“Pennant brings international experience and knowledge in defence industry training and we are delighted to be working with its Australian team,” Trevor said.
“GenSkill training is offered across the globe and we are very excited to be able to offer the same training and skills to Hunter students who are interested in defence and aerospace careers. It means the Hunter’s workforce will have internationally comparable skills.”
Trevor said that by being able to provide these opportunities to future students also means our local economy is likely to grow as a result.
“Having a highly skilled, proficient workforce underpins economic growth and prosperity. RDA Hunter is thankful for the ongoing support of its local industry partners and we continue to work with them to strengthen our workforce development programs and keep the Hunter ahead of the curve,” he said.
Pennant Australasia’s Support and Business Development Manager, Stavros Tsolakides said he was very pleased with the partnership and bringing aerospace skills to the Hunter region.
“Our GenSkill devices provide engaging, practical, hands-on training and a tangible way for students to apply their skills,” he said.
“Our hope is that our equipment will help spark student interest in pursuing careers in the Hunter’s growing aerospace sector.”
IMAGE | STEM Workforce Initiative at FighterWorld in Williamtown – ceremony held in November.
