MP helps shape renewable energy training for Victoria

Melbourne Polytechnic representatives joined leaders from across Victoria's TAFE network at the VET Certificates in Renewable Energy Showcase, held at The Gordon in Geelong on 7 October.

Melbourne Polytechnic representatives joined leaders from across Victoria's TAFE network at the VET Certificates in Renewable Energy Showcase, held at The Gordon in Geelong on 7 October.

The event brought together representatives from The Gordon, Bendigo Kangan Institute, Federation TAFE and other partners involved in the Victorian Government's $7 million VET Certificates in Renewable Energy (VCRE) initiative, showcasing progress on the development of new qualifications, micro-credentials and short courses to support Victoria's growing clean energy workforce.

Representing Melbourne Polytechnic in its role as the initiative's coordinating TAFE, Chief Executive, Frances Coppolillo spoke about the importance of collaboration across the TAFE network to ensure training meets the evolving needs of learners and industry.

“Being the Coordinating TAFE has never been about ownership. It's about bringing the sector together to deliver meaningful outcomes for learners and industry,” Frances said.

Melbourne Polytechnic was also well represented throughout the program, with Skylie Garwood, Program Director Renewable Energy and TAFE Coordination, Trent McCarthy, Director Clean Economy Engagement and Experience, and Rachael Keefe, Manager Sustainability, contributing their expertise and insights to discussions on workforce development, industry engagement and sustainability in the clean energy sector. 

Melbourne Polytechnic is leading the design of two qualifications under the initiative and is planning to deliver the new Certificate II in Renewable Energy Technologies and Applications as a Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary Students (VDSS) program from 2027. The qualification is being led by The Gordon and developed collaboratively across the TAFE network.

The Certificate II will provide secondary students with practical skills in areas including renewable energy systems, solar and battery technologies, electric vehicle charging and home electrification, while also building valuable capabilities such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving.

A key focus of the initiative has been adopting a human-centred design approach to course development, ensuring training is shaped by learner needs and industry expectations.

The VET Certificates in Renewable Energy program will create new pathways into the clean energy sector, support upskilling and reskilling opportunities, and help build the skilled workforce needed to support Victoria's transition to a renewable energy future.