The Hunter is on the prowl. By taking the lead in developing a skills strategy, the region is unique in its efforts to engage with the NBN and make the most of the largest infrastructure project since the Snowy Mountains Scheme.
More than double the number of expected participants attended the meeting to identify the skills needed and opportunities related to the rollout of the NBN. By bringing together more than 60 key players the groundwork for a collaborative strategy is being laid.
There was a definite buzz of excitement in the air at the meeting, facilitated by Chia Moan of make stuff happen. The work of the day will be incorporated into a skills strategy for the region that will position the region to overcome challenges posed by such a huge project.
Sponsored by Hunter RDA (Regional Development Australia) with the Local Employment Coordinator and State Training Services, the collaboration is about “getting our ducks lined up in order to overcome the skills issues that face the NBN and other large infrastructure projects,” said James Vidler of Hunter RDA.
Benefits of such strategic work could lead to the region being bumped up the rollout queue.