Construction has begun on a purpose-built training academy at Carrick that will help address Tasmania’s shortage of skilled earthmoving operators and construction workers.
The Earthworks Academy at Quercus Park will operate as an open work site, giving students hands-on experience in a controlled industry environment.
Skills and Jobs Minister Felix Ellis said the facility would create a pipeline of workers needed for major state projects.
“This purpose-built site will help more Tasmanians become job-ready in the civil construction industry, ensuring we have a pipeline of skilled workers ready to deliver infrastructure projects across the state,” Ellis said.
The academy will train operators for bulldozers, excavators, graders, loaders and road rollers, as well as truck drivers.
Ellis said the workers would be essential for upcoming projects including the Macquarie Point Stadium, major energy developments and housing construction.
The Tasmanian government has committed $4.3 million to establish the academy and purchase training equipment.
Students will gain real experience by upgrading infrastructure across the Quercus Park site as part of their training.
“This is a win-win,” Ellis said.
“We are delivering infrastructure for Rural Youth Tasmania and Agfest, while also laying a foundation for rewarding careers for the next generation of Tasmanian construction workers.”
The Civil Contractors Federation Tasmania will operate the academy, which is expected to welcome its first students later this year.
