Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury
Headline: Ara invests into Electrical Training at Timaru
Students starting their Electrical trades in Timaru in 2018 have a $200,000 new workshop on which to learn to apply Electrical Engineering knowledge, skills and techniques to identifying and defining complex problems in a variety of contexts.
Working in the Electrical industry requires a specific and complex skillset. Because of this, employers look for qualified and trained people with a Level 3 pre-trade qualification who can apply up-to-date electrical industry knowledge to their work place.
The brand new training workshop is fully equipped with new hand tools and wired up for 3-phase power, with control gear, electric motors, and benches protected by residual current devices (RCDs). Ara has also invested in the latest lab and practical electrical test equipment.
The new facilities will improve the students’ learning experience and set them up for industry, Stephen Price, Manager Electrical Trades, says. “It enhances their opportunities for getting an apprenticeship, because they will be familiar with household appliances, switchboards, motor testing – all the basic electrical elements. They are gaining greater knowledge of the industry.”
In the past, students studying at Ara in Timaru could gain a Level 2 qualification and complete their Level 3 by either correspondence or night classes. Now they are able to complete two thirds of the theory required to become an electrician.
The new facility, in the former outdoor education area, has been upgraded for Level 3 training to take students through the New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory. The nine-month qualification gives students electrical industry knowledge and skills in a way that is hands on and enjoyable, in small classes that allow for individual time with the tutor.
Graduates will be ready for an apprenticeship as an Industrial, Domestic, Commercial or High Voltage Electrician or other electrical related careers in switchgear fitting, motor rewinding and repair, industrial measurement and control, electronic security and electrical service technical support.
This programme is very popular and has 16 students in Timaru, however applications are open for the next intake, beginning in 2019.