The NSW Labor Government is equipping the next generation of chefs and bakers in the Illawarra with the technology skills to bridge the digital skills gap for hospitality workers.
For the first time, apprentices and students studying Certificate III in Baking and Commercial Cookery at TAFE NSW Wollongong will complete technology units, helping students build the digital literacy skills they need to succeed in their studies and in the workplace.
The pilot program will see first-year students complete a Statement of Attainment in Use Personal Digital Technology.
The rapid pace of digital transformation across industries is driving demand to deliver a workforce with the skills to thrive in a digital economy.
With a 22 per cent increase in demand for chef roles in the last 12 months in the Illawarra, which is triple the national average, TAFE NSW Wollongong is proudly providing hospitality support to the entire region.
TAFE NSW Wollongong campus has a number of hospitality courses including:
- Certificate II in Cooking
- Certificates II and III in Baking
- Certificates II and III in Hospitality
- Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
- Certificate III in Cake and Pastry
- Certificate III in Bread Baking.
Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park said:
“Hospitality workers play a critical role right across the Illawarra, for locals and tourists alike.
“We know that digital innovation is changing the landscape of our tourism industry. Digital skills are vital to future-proof the workforce, ensuring the Illawarra remains a premier tourist destination.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said:
“Getting a great digital education opens up so many opportunities for young people, this training provides a fantastic new way to educate our community.
“It’s great for employers too as access to quality, industry-relevant training creates a pipeline of skilled workers ready, willing and able to support the growth and development of local businesses and economy.”
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:
“Every worker in every industry now needs digital skills. This includes trade workers having to add digital skills to their toolbox.
“We are committed to rebuilding TAFE NSW after a decade of deliberate neglect by the previous Liberal National government.
“It is wonderful to see TAFE NSW Wollongong supporting the demand for local chefs in the Illawarra.”
