Automotive Training

Twenty one students are benefiting from off-campus automotive training through a workshop in Wangara - the local hub of the automotive industry - leased and operated by West Coast TAFE.

Students spend three days a week at the workshop and one day a week in work placement to achieve a Certificate I Pre-Appreniceship in light Vehicle Automotive.

Automotive lecturer, Shaun Holland, said that due to the current shortage of skilled mechanics in Perth, completion of a pre-apprenticeship will lead to ample employment opportunities for the students of the workshop..

The Automotive Training Workshop is providing local students with training they haven't had access to in the past. Two students have already secured apprenticeships in local businesses and visitors are approaching the workshop frequently seeking trained staff to join their teams.

 Automotive Holdings Group (AHG)  Training Manager, Lee Morton, has established a strong relationship with West Coast TAFE and recognises that  her businesses' future employees are in the skills system.

Having access to young people with basic skills in the automotive field is a great step forward for both parties particularly in the current climate where several automotive businesses are desperate for skilled staff.

Rhian Arthur (15) moved away from her family in Wyndham to do the pre-apprenticeship in Wangara and said it was the best decision she's ever made and said that she found it better to learn by actually doing. The workshop allows students to balance theory work with practical and no two days are the same.

West Coast TAFE is aiming to work with industry and local firms to establish partnerships that will lead every successful student into an apprenticeship in the automotive industry.

West Coast TAFE in Joondalup has also celebrated the long-awaited government decision to build a $12.44 million trades training centre at Clarkson.

The West Coast TAFE Trades Centre, co-located with Clarkson Community High School, will provide building and construction, electrical and metal and manufacturing services training to up to 450 students a year.

Due to open in 2009, the new trades centre is expected to assist the current skills shortage in the booking northwest region and ultimately aid teh the affordability of new homes in Perth.