EnergySafe Magazine May 2014, issue 35 | Page 10

NECA SKILLS CENTRE OFFICIALLY OPENED Friday the 14th March marked the official opening of the new $5.2 million NECA Skills Centre. The state-of-the-art facility was opened by the Honourable Peter Hall MLC, Minister for Higher Education and Skills, Minister responsible for the Teaching Profession. The opening of the new Electrotechnology Training Centre is focused on providing electrical pre-apprentice, apprentice and industry based courses in a combined learning forum. The upgrade included: • 10 large general purpose classr ooms, all equipped with smartboards and blended learning facilities • 210sq metre Workshop area comprising 22 work areas within the corrals for practical simulation, as well as a break out room providing computers and smartboards • Seminar and Training rooms for large groups • 2 tutorial classrooms allowing for oneon-one and small group interaction and training • Staff Room including 16 workstations, kitchenette and meal area • New and modern reception and administration area • Lift to support disabled access, entry canopy, waiting area and lobby The upgrade could not have been possible without the support of both the Commonwealth and Victorian Government. Philip Green, CEO of 370 degrees group commented “It has been a magnificent journey for the Board and Management staff over the last 2 years. The outcome is a remarkable modern, wellequipped and cutting-edge Training Centre where electrical apprentices and electrical businesses can participate in high quality training”. Minister Hall along with Philip Green and Phil Honeywood (370 degrees group Chairman) toured the facility and saw first-hand the impact the new Skills Centre is already making, speaking with Pre-Apprenticeship students, Apprentices and staff. LICENSING & REGISTRATION | SAFETY & BUSINESS | ELECTRICAL SHORT COURSES www.necaskillscentre.com.au