The Australian Labor Party, in partnership with Central Queensland University (CQU), has announced a funding commitment to establish an electric vehicle and sustainable energy training centre in Mackay.
$9 million has been pledged towards the Mackay Electric Vehicle and Energy Training Centre (MEVET) to be built alongside the Ooralea Trades Training Centre.
More and more businesses are looking to turn green, with mining operators such as BHP finding electric vehicles perform well both above and below ground while reducing noise and fumes.
MEVET will train the workforce to meet the growing demand from the mining industry for mechanics to convert and maintain hydrogen-powered vehicles, as well as hybrid engine maintenance and repair, maintenance of infrastructure such as charging stations, and installation and maintenance of alternative energy such as solar and wind.
MEVET will also cater to the growing demand for hybrid diesel-electric and solar-powered vehicles across both the marine industry and the private market.
Labor Candidate for Dawson Shane Hamilton made the announcement at CQU last week, speaking of the importance of preparing for the future.
“When I started out in the mining industry, it was all diesel engines,” Mr Hamilton said.
“In the future though, we know there are going to be more electric vehicles operating both above and below ground.
“I’m proud to have secured this funding, ensuring that local kids will have the opportunity to learn the skills needed to maintain these vehicles and work in secure local jobs right here in our region.”
The centre is hoped to train 100-120 skilled tradespeople each year.
The project will create up to 45 jobs throughout construction and 20 ongoing full-time jobs in training, administration, and support.
Mr Hamilton welcomed Shadow Treasurer Jim Chalmers to Mackay last week to make the announcement.
“As the national economy recovers from COVID we want regional Queensland to be a much bigger part of the story,” Mr Chalmers said.
“What this announcement today means is that as the needs of heavy industry change, the Mackay Whitsunday region will have the skills and the workforce to create good, secure, and sustainable jobs for locals.”
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