Workers in Western Sydney will learn to produce the next wave of space technology and high-tech componentry as part of the first industry-led short courses rolled out under the NSW Government’s $37 million New Education and Training Model (NETM).

Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres announced today that 15 education providers have been appointed to deliver the short courses, or “micro-credentials”.

“Western Sydney University (WSU) and GE Additive, have formed the country’s first industry partnership on metal additive manufacturing which has huge potential to solve manufacturing challenges and create high-skilled, high paying jobs right here in the Western Parkland City,” said Mr. Ayres.

“The Parkland City will soon be home to a range of cutting-edge industries such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, defense and pharmaceutical manufacturing. We want to ensure our local workforce has access to the right education and training to be able to take up those opportunities.”

When fully operational, the NETM will deliver more than 7,000 training places over four years in the Western Parkland City.

GE Australia Country Leader Sam Maresh said GE Additive was delighted to be part of this innovative approach to providing practical education and training.

“This course will be designed to align with employer needs to equip participants with sought-after skills and expertise in a rapidly expanding sector and unlock the potential provided by additive manufacturing,” Mr. Maresh said.

Vice-Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University Professor Barney Glover AO said the partnership with GE and WPCA was part of a wider commitment to supporting practical skills and employment outcomes.

“Our Launch Pad technology business incubator is a natural fit to deliver this innovative program oriented to support new skills and technology adoption for the participants and Western Sydney businesses in which they will work,” Professor Glover said.

Chair of the Western Parkland City Authority (WPCA) Jennifer Westacott AO, said the NETM will help globally-competitive businesses locating in the Western Parkland City find and grow their skilled workforce.

“The NETM program has a dual objective – to both boost the skills of residents in Western Sydney, and to help attract the right businesses and investment to the region. This first course will do just that, by providing accessible, high-quality, hands-on training, which is critical to the future of the Western Parkland City,” Ms. Westacott said.