Isuzu Powers TAFE Tech Training Boost

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has renewed its commitment to ongoing training and retention of diesel technicians, announcing significant support in the form of engine hardware to be donated to a number of TAFE colleges across Victoria. ​ 

A total of 32 contemporary diesel engines have been supplied to Sunraysia Institute of TAFE (SuniTAFE) (Mildura and Swan Hill), The Gordon (Geelong), Chisholm Institute (Dandenong), Wodonga TAFE (Barnawartha campus) and Outer Northern Trade Centre (Lalor). 

Speaking at a hand-over event hosted by SuniTAFE in Mildura, IAL’s Head of Aftersales, Brett Stewart, said the brand was committed to continuing its support of TAFE training. 

Meeting demand 

“Demand for diesel powered commercial vehicles and capital equipment has never been higher and these machines all need service and support throughout their lifecycle,” Mr Stewart said. 

“However, a persistent issue for our sector is a shortage of skilled diesel technicians in the system. ​ 

“As Australia’s truck market leader, we’re committed to ensuring this demand is met. Our TAFE institutions really are the lifeblood of this broader push, so what better place to lend a hand,” he stated. 

The diesel engines supplied include a range of four and six-cylinder variants encompassing mechanical and common rail designs. These are the same units that are used in many of Isuzu’s existing line-up of truck models and off-highway Isuzu Power Solutions (IPS) products. 

Current technology 

“We have secured 32 diesel engines of various sizes and configurations for students to work on that are all current, ‘in-market’ models – not old or discontinued technology,” Mr Stewart said. ​ 

“As the biggest selling truck brand in the country, there’s a fair chance that many of these technicians will eventually work with Isuzu diesel engines, so having them experience the same type of technology during their TAFE training, ensures a smoother transition to workshops or out into the broader capital equipment field.” 

IAL’s Head of Aftersales, Brett Stewart (left) and SuniTAFE CEO, Brett Millington

Big impact 

SuniTAFE CEO, Brett Millington, said the arrival and scale of the Isuzu donation will have an immediate impact on student training. ​ 

“We’re very grateful for the immense generosity of this donation,” said Mr Millington. 

“This equipment will be used in vital day-to-day training of our students and will make a significant difference in the classroom. ​ 

“We pride ourselves on the training we deliver, and this equipment will help us teach skills that are vital for our region now and into the future." 

Real world experience 

Will Sharpe, SuniTAFE Heavy Automotive Teacher, said that diesel technician training using current model engines and ancillaries closes the gap for real world experience. 

“These engines and radiators will have a massive impact on our training in Mildura and Swan Hill,” said Mr Sharpe. 

“It will give hundreds of apprentices hands-on exposure to real-world engine, diagnostics, cooling system designs, and modern common rail diesel technology.” ​ 

Will Sharpe (glasses), SuniTAFE Heavy Automotive Teacher

Job for life 

IAL’s Brett Stewart reinforced the notion that a career as a diesel mechanic remains a long-term proposition, with a range of employment opportunities available well into the future. ​ 

“Diesel engine technology, whether it be in trucks, off-highway applications or a range of other heavy industries, has a strong future despite perceptions,” said Mr Stewart. ​ 

“Demand is only increasing and with engine technology and overall efficiencies improving drastically, the need for trained technicians will remain strong for many decades to come. 

“This means that Isuzu dealers and other workshops will be busy places, and the most valuable resource will be skilled technicians. 

“I started as a diesel apprentice and did all my TAFE studies at the Gordon Geelong. I forged a successful career in workshops, dealerships, and now within a leading OEM. ​ 

“Having professional training is a skill for life and can lead to a range of opportunities that many people never imagined.” 

The following line-up of Isuzu engines have been supplied.