53 shipbuilding workers, whose roles on the Hobart Class Air Warfare Destroyer Program have ended will take part in a digital up-skilling program which is funded by the Commonwealth and South Australian governments.
The newly created Diploma of Digital Technology will educate shipbuilders-come-students on digital technologies required as part of the $35 billion Hunter Class Frigate Program, and will help retain important shipbuilding capability between shipbuilding programs.
During the course, students will combine theoretical approaches to Industry 4.0 technology with hands-on experience to prepare them for work at the state-of-the-art Osborne
Naval Shipyard in South Australia, one of the world’s most technologically advanced shipyards.
Fifty four year old Grange resident Tony will undertake the new course after nearly 15 years working at the Osborne shipyard.
“My wife Kerry also works in the shipyard (she is the barista at the canteen) – we actually met at work when we were both at ASC North about 12 years ago. I started on the AWD program in September 2010.
“The opportunity to upskill while maintaining my company service is very appealing. I look forward to applying these qualifications in a practical way, enhancing the capability of the ‘new’ shipyard.”
Despite coronavirus presenting extreme challenges across Australia and the world, Flinders University is using innovative means to ensure the course can be delivered online, which means students can conduct their learning at home.
When day-to-day life resumes some normality, students will be able to attend classes at Flinders University located at the Tonsley Innovation District.
Flinders University President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling says Flinders University is delighted to once again be partnering with ASC Shipbuilding to apply research and teaching expertise across digital systems and industrial transformation and to further equip these and many other highly skilled workers to meet the current and emerging needs of the defence industry.
“Flinders University is committed to collaborating with our national and international partners to achieve practical, industry-aligned research and education solutions that build the capabilities, productivity and expertise of their workforce as well as contribute to broader economic benefits.”
