TAFE NSW to train Telstra project managers

TAFE NSW and Telstra Operations have entered into a new partnership that will see the education provider supplier skills training for the telecommunications corporation.

TAFE NSW and Telstra signed a memorandum of understanding earlier this month, and launched the first project under their strategic alliance—a joint Information Technology and Telecommunications Engineering Qualification Accreditation Program—with the support of Innovation and Business Skills Australia (IBSA) and the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM).

More than 400 Telstra employees are eligible to participate in a skills recognition and development process in the pilot phase of the project. Staff will undergo a comprehensive assessment to identify current skills and skills gaps to be addresses before on-the-job training and mentoring takes place.

“The signing of this agreement illustrates TAFE NSW’s connection to industry partners and its ability to support innovative enterprises in developing the skills needed now and into the future,” said Michael Coutts-Trotter (pictured right), director-general of Education and Training and managing director of TAFE NSW.

Executive director of Telstra Architecture Online and Media Michael Lawrey (pictured left) said it made sense to invest in Telstra’s greatest asset—its staff. “As a technology leader, our technical staff are our greatest asset and it is our priority to ensure we refresh and build their capabilities as the industry evolves. The ICT10 pilot will give our people the ability to develop their existing knowledge and technical skills, as well as achieve industry accreditation.”