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In an Australian first, 10 Adelaide signal electricians recently graduated from the Certificate IV in Electrical Rail Signalling, the first ‘dual learning’ electrical trade course of its kind in this country.
Pioneered by the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) and Electroskills the Certificate IV in Electrical Rail Signalling allows electrical tradespeople and new apprentices starting their career, to complete a dual trade.
The 10 graduates live and work in Adelaide, hailing from Snowtown, Murray Bridge and Adelaide city.
ARTC Chief Executive Officer David Marchant said the development of a national benchmark Certificate in Electrical Signal Maintenance was essential for freight rail infrastructure in South Australia and across the nation.
“Maintaining rail safety is paramount in an efficient rail system. This unique Certificate course will set the industry benchmark in electrical signal maintenance.”
Mr Marchant said Electroskills had developed the course over a number of years and conducted extensive consultation with the major rail organisations in Australia – ARTC, Queensland Rail and Rail Corp. in NSW.
“Commitment by all the States was essential as it means that a graduate’s qualifications will be recognised across state borders. This provides workers with career portability.”
Australian Rail Track Corporation partnered with Electroskills in NSW to develop the Certificate which takes learners with no previous knowledge of signalling from a basic conceptual understanding through to knowledge and application of signalling maintenance and construction principles.
The course consists of 16 sequential components with later topics building upon knowledge already gained in earlier modules. Additionally learners may attend ‘elective’ modules for the purpose of refresher training or to suit specific needs.
The course combines class room based learning with substantial ‘on-track’ experience. It is expected that the course would be delivered over a minimum period of 18 months (approximately one topic per month) and a maximum period of 4 years.
“This sort of dual training is essential for developing skilled tradespeople in South Australia,” Mr Marchant said.
Those interested in learning more about careers with ARTC should visit the website at www.artc.com.au