New technological and digital innovations are revolutionising Gas Industry operations, presenting opportunities as well as challenges for workforce development. The Gas Industry Reference Committee (IRC) is pleased to see the qualifications and competency standards it develops are being used by industry enterprises to meet the skill needs of their workforce.
For Zinfra, a leading field force delivery partner in the industry, skills development and building the capability of the industry is vital across the entire portfolio of work. From small projects that help keep the lights on and gas flowing, to multi- million-dollar infrastructure projects and service contracts that are changing the nature of energy delivery and are moving Australia toward a low carbon emissions future.
Now, the next generation of Gas Supply Industry workers have commenced a new Upskilling Pathway program at Zinfra, leading to industry-endorsed, national qualifications.
70 new and existing gas technicians, from Gas field workers to pipeline operators in Zinfra’s transmission and distribution services divisions, are enrolled in the program. 23 employees will complete the trade-equivalent Certificate III in Gas Supply Industry Operations and 47 workers, who have been identified as potential leaders/supervisors, will complete the Certificate III and/or the Certificate IV in Gas Supply Industry Operations.
The training is being delivered by EnerTrain, a registered training organisation that focuses on the energy industry, both on-site and at a training facility, with a blend of face-to-face and on-line learning and assessment activities.
David Wall, Learning and Development and Technical Training Manager, said “the development of our employees is fundamental to building a successful and sustainable organization and in becoming a trusted partner in energy. We are committed to creating a workplace that’s inclusive, supportive and rewarding. The upskilling program provides everyone in our business the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification that reflects their skills and experience.”
Mr Wall sees the program as a win-win for the business and its employees. “The training leads to a more flexible and mobile workforce and brings improvements in productivity, safety and service performance. Our workers gain the skills and knowledge, including the use of new technologies, they need to perform their job competently, and to pursue leadership and career pathways.
