Minister Tierney launches Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence

Melbourne Polytechnic has ushered in a new era of manufacturing training with the launch of the Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence (AMCOE).

The Minister for Training and Skills and the Minister for Higher Education, the Hon Gayle Tierney MP officially opened the centre at Melbourne Polytechnic’s Heidelberg campus on Monday 22 May.

The $3.2 million Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence (AMCOE) will supply the future workforce and upskill existing workers to support innovation and the increasingly technology-driven, value-added manufacturing sector in Melbourne's north. 

Supported by $1.42 mil in grant funding from the Victorian Government, AMCOE will reposition and elevate vocational engineering (TAFE) training to meet the needs of the rapidly-changing and expanding $30 billion Victorian manufacturing industry, which currently employs more than 260,000 people.

With applications ranging from aviation and biotechnology to construction, advanced manufacturing is critical to securing a sustainable future for this sector and to compete in global markets.

Advanced manufacturing combines traditional manufacturing techniques with advanced technologies such as robotics, computer-controlled machines (CNC machines) and additive manufacturing (3D printing).

Melbourne Polytechnic has commenced training of the first intake of AMCOE students enrolled in the modernised Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade MEM30219 who will access hand-on learning in computer-aided design, CNC machines and high-resolution 3D printers.

The updated curriculum has been informed by our industry partners to ensure our graduates are ready to take on the real-world challenges and opportunities in advanced manufacturing.

“For more than 100 years Melbourne Polytechnic has augmented Victoria’s enviable manufacturing industry through the supply of a skilled workforce.

“This targeted investment in advanced manufacturing coupled with our footprint in Melbourne’s north means we are well placed to support the transformation of this industry, and build capability and skills for the future,” said Frances Coppolillo, Chief Executive of Melbourne Polytechnic.

“The strength of our programs is attributable to great teachers and a curriculum that keeps pace with a rapidly-changing world. This is made possible through the strength of our industry partners and employer networks. We look forward to working with industry partners to train and support the next generation of the advanced manufacturing workforce.