A new TAFE Queensland training facility is changing the game in renewable energy education.
TAFE Queensland is continuing its legacy of innovation with the opening of its Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility and Advanced Manufacturing Skills Lab at the Townsville Trade Training Centre.
Officially opened on 10 July 2024, this state-of-the-art facility is TAFE Queensland’s first purpose-built hydrogen and electric vehicle training facility. It marks a significant advancement in supporting Queensland’s clean energy transition and preparing a new generation of skilled workers for the growing hydrogen sector.
Supporting Queensland’s renewable future
Queensland is set to become a global hydrogen powerhouse. According to the Queensland Government’s Department of Energy and Climate, independent modelling by EY Australia estimates that Queensland’s hydrogen industry will be worth $33 billion by 2040, supporting 10,000 jobs.
TAFE Queensland General Manager for North region, Susan Kinobe, emphasised the importance of the new facility in Bohle.
“For over 140 years, TAFE Queensland has been at the heart of Queensland communities, and now, with our world-class Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility, we are continuing this legacy into the future,” Mrs Kinobe said.
“Each year more than 2,000 trade apprentices are trained at the Bohle campus, and these new facilities will provide North Queenslanders with even greater access to the training and skills required for the future of work in hydrogen and advanced manufacturing,” she said.
Developed through close collaboration with Government and local industry, the facility meets the evolving needs of Queensland’s energy and manufacturing sectors. By aligning training with these needs, we ensure that students are equipped with the hands-on training they need to thrive in their chosen career, driving the success of their industry and communities.
“The Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility will provide greater access to the training and skills required for the future of work in hydrogen and advanced manufacturing,” Mrs Kinobe said.
TAFE Queensland Faculty Manager for Building and Industries, Andy Kent, highlighted the facility’s role in meeting industry demands.
“The Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility allows us to deliver specialised training that aligns with current industry needs and future growth demand in North Queensland,” Mr Kent said.
“The Basic Hydrogen Safety Skill Set (UEGSS00013) is a Queensland-first, designed to ensure the safety and uniformity of Queensland’s approach to hydrogen as a power source, which is essential as hydrogen emerges as a key player in Queensland’s transition to cleaner energy sources.
“The training covers a wide range of topics, including the fundamental properties of hydrogen, safety regulations, hazard identification, emergency response procedures, and the policies relating to environmental and sustainable energy,” he said.
This skill set is particularly relevant for tradespeople in fields where hydrogen technology is becoming more prevalent. For example, graduates of Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820) are likely to encounter hydrogen in their work and will benefit from this training.
Similarly, those with a Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (CPC40920), who hold a gas license, and Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30219), who work with large equipment or transport vehicles that are set to be powered by hydrogen, are also likely to undertake this upskilling opportunity. By equipping these industry professionals with advanced skills in hydrogen safety and technology, this training helps them future proof their careers.
Student success
Scott Walsh, a Training Advisor at Sun Metals Corporation, was fortunate enough to be part of the first cohort of students enrolled in the Basic Hydrogen Safety Skill Set.
Mr Walsh, who collaborated on the course’s development, shared his perspective on the training.
“Sun Metals’ early involvement in the development of the training units got me really excited to see the final product as well as participate in the training. The skill set has definitely deepened my understanding of hydrogen’s role in energy production and its practical applications.
“It also teaches a deep understanding of hydrogen’s characteristics, production, storage, and transport. This knowledge is crucial as we move towards a future where hydrogen will play a significant role in energy production.”
Mr Walsh also noted the impact of the training on his role.
“Working in the training department at Sun Metals, I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned to address safety concerns about hydrogen.
“The training helps demystify hydrogen and provides a solid foundation for communicating its benefits and safety to not just industry professionals, but also the public.”
The Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility features advanced training resources such as hydrogen generators and power cell boards, providing hands-on training that is essential for understanding hydrogen technology.
Walsh praised these practical experiences, saying, “The facility is equipped with cutting-edge equipment so you can see how hydrogen is generated, and how it gets transformed into electricity. It’s a learning experience that you simply can’t get elsewhere.”
Hydrogen and beyond
The Basic Hydrogen Safety Skillset is just one of the new programs that will be on offer at the Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility and Advanced Manufacturing Skills Lab at the Townsville Trade Training Centre in Bohle. The facility will also offer a range of new training options, from nationally recognised certificates and diplomas to skill sets, micro-credentials, and trade tasters for high school students as part of the TAFE at School program.
“Our educational offerings are expanding with new programs and skills sets in sustainable energy process plant operations, electric vehicles, autonomous technologies, manufacturing technologies, Cobots, and Industry 4.0,” Mr Kent said.
“Excitingly – and a first for TAFE Queensland – we will be offering the new Diploma of Applied Technologies (MEM50822) from this facility, which will commence this year in term four.”
“Our educational offerings are continually expanding to meet the evolving needs of the industry,” he said.
“The Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility is a testament to our commitment to leading the way in renewable energy education.
“It ensures that our local workforce is equipped with the skills needed for the future,” Mr Kent said.
According to Mrs Kinobe, there has never been a better time for students to pursue a trade.
“The Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility at TAFE Queensland North will significantly contribute to the development of skills needed for the future of work. We are proud to be at the forefront of this transition and to support Queensland’s clean energy goals,” Mrs Kinobe said.
For more information, visit tafeqld.edu.au
