The partnership will see us work together to enhance local training and educational opportunities, foster awareness of the offshore wind industry, and encourage the development of a diverse and skilled workforce here in Gippsland.
The MOU outlines key initiatives to promote industry engagement, support targeted talent development in line with the Major Projects Skills Guarantee, and strengthen community connections. Working with TAFE Gippsland, we’re keen to see these initiatives realised in the coming years via initiatives like introductory sessions for students on the offshore wind industry and potential career paths, events, guest lectures, site visits, and collaborating on student projects.
Albert Quan, Project Director for Gippsland Offshore Wind Farm at Ørsted, says he wants local workers and students to have ‘every opportunity’ to play an active role in the establishment of Victoria’s offshore wind industry.
“Our ‘build-own-operate’ model means that we intend to be a long-term operator in Gippsland. We expect to operate our two offshore wind projects for up to 30 years, creating thousands of jobs along the way requiring a diverse and skilled workforce.”
“Forging strong partnerships with local education providers is one of the first steps in preparing Gippslanders for the future industry. Our partnership with TAFE Gippsland will help us to foster the skills and job growth needed to power the industry, ensuring locals can reap the benefits of the clean energy transition.”
As a key provider of vocational education and training in the Gippsland region, TAFE Gippsland is ideally positioned to support this initiative by providing high-quality training programs and industry engagement. The initiative expands on their aim to further develop the talent needed to sustain Gippsland’s leadership in clean energy innovation and excellence.
We had the pleasure of signing the MOU at our Taipei office in Taiwan, where we also showcased the construction of Changhua 2204 – a 920MW offshore wind project in the Taiwan Strait.
We look forward to working closely with TAFE Gippsland to unlock the full potential of offshore wind for local students and workers for generations to come.
