TAFE Queensland hopes to spark a training revolution for electrotechnology apprentices after powering on its new Smart Home training facility.
The first-of-its-kind education centre will help students and qualified sparkies amp up their skills as they learn to transform traditional properties into smart homes.
A smart home is a residence integrated with computers and digitally connected technologies that can automate household functions, providing time-saving convenience and cost savings.
The tech allows homeowners to control climate, lighting, white goods, household appliances and even entertainment systems remotely using a smartphone or tablet through an internet connection,
Currently, 7.6 million Aussie homes have at least one smart device installed within their property, with commonly found products including internet-connected fridges, washing machines and smart speakers.
With technological advancements rapidly evolving in the smart home space, Aussie electricians will be increasingly tasked with upgrading our buildings into digitally interconnected, energy-efficient, secure living spaces.
The new Ashmore campus training facility is preparing to lead the charge in that transformation, with the first intake of students already commencing.
TAFE Queensland’s Educational Delivery Manager on the Gold Coast, Chris Martyr, says the centre is designed to bridge the gap between traditional electrical work and the future of home technology.
“The new facility ensures electrical tradesmen are at the forefront of change, capable of integrating the latest technologies into homes to enhance the quality of life, security, and environmental sustainability,” he said.
“We aim to not just educate electricians on the latest in technology but also transform their approach to home innovation. This facility is a critical step towards a future where smart homes are the norm, providing unparalleled levels of comfort, efficiency, and security.”
TAFE Queensland Gold Coast’s General Manager, Karen Dickinson, says the Smart Home Technology Training Facility powered up Queensland TAFE’s commitment to nurture a workforce able to build a sustainable future.
“At TAFE Queensland, our commitment to sustainability is not just about what we teach; it’s about preparing our students to make a real-world impact, she said.
“By equipping our students with the skills and knowledge to implement smart home technologies, we are directly contributing to the creation of more energy-efficient homes and communities.
This initiative is a testament to our dedication to fostering an environmentally conscious and technologically savvy workforce capable of driving meaningful change in our society.”
The TAFE has partnered with home electrical product manufacturer Clipsal to bring the hands-on training centre to life, creating an electrifying learning experience that covers the full spectrum of smart home automation.
“Clipsal led this project, which demonstrates the industry demand for this training and is a great example of how TAFE Queensland partners with industry to ensure our training is current, industry-standard, and provides employers with a pipeline of job-ready workers,” Ms Dickson said.
Chris Kerr, CEO of Clipsal, told Build-it that the company collaborated with TAFE Queensland to design the purpose of building a smart room with a key focus on sustainability and changing technologies.
“It’s imperative that we equip students with knowledge and skills to implement smart home technologies and contribute to the evolution of energy-efficient homes and communities,” he said.
“This will ensure that budding electricians are at the forefront of change and equipped to enter the workforce with cutting-edge skills.”
“This initiative is a testament to our dedication to fostering an environmentally conscious and technologically savvy workforce capable of driving meaningful change in our society.”
The successful launch of the smart education solution has led TAFE Queensland to consider opening additional facilities across other campuses in the future.
