HVAC Centre of Excellence opens at Holmesglen

A new HVAC Centre of Excellence at Holmesglen’s Chadstone campus was officially launched by the Victorian Skills Commissioner Neil Coulson on May 28.

The launch was attended by around 100 guests from the HVAC and associated industries, including the organisations who supported the centre.

The facility is a collaborative partnership between Holmesglen and the Air Conditioning and Mechanical Contractors’ Association (AMCA). It offers applied learning in HVAC and features cutting-edge equipment and technology.

The purpose-fit, modern facility has been designed to upskill existing climate control technicians and train future mechanical services professionals, both in Australia and internationally. The AMCA says the centre will provide leadership across the vocational education and training sector and drive mechanical services training in Victoria.

In his speech, Coulson acknowledged the importance of collaboration between education providers and industry to secure a prosperous future for trades.

“As the Victorian Skills Commissioner, my role is to work with industry stakeholders and government to better align training with the needs of Victorian industry and the economy,” he said. “As I see it, genuine collaboration between training providers and industry – based on industry intelligence and exchange of ideas – is the key to achieving this alignment.

“I see this centre as an example of doing it right. It is an arrangement that effectively leverages the expertise and mission of each of the parties.

“Your collaboration will be a powerful force in future-proofing the heating ventilation and air conditioning industry. And it is an example to which other industries can aspire.”

AMCA Victoria President Alex Hall also spoke at the event. He noted that the HVAC industry is rapidly advancing, bringing changes to the skills required by new entrants and qualified tradespersons. The AMCA has committed to developing and growing partnership arrangements with TAFEs to address these challenges.

AMCA National President Russell Telford reiterated Hall’s message and picked out three key themes for industry and VET collaboration. First, to establish a culture of co-investment between VET, industry and government. Second, renewing the focus of quality industry-led outcomes. And finally, elevating the status of apprenticeships by communicating how it will lead to a sustainable career pathway.