Firstly, we would like to acknowledge the amazing industry support we have received in 2020, to say it’s been a challenging year is putting it mildly.
As we approach the end of 2020- a year like no other, it is time to reflect on how innovative we have been these last 8 months. Testing new ideas and performing in ways we never envisaged so soon. Adapting to necessary changes has been our focus and essential to achieve in 2020, and we are proud of our sustained commitment to industry through the year. Amongst the restrictions we ensured our stakeholders needs continued to be met, as we recognised how critical our work is during the events of 2020, supporting the infrastructure build and clean economy implementation in recovery.
We are very proud of what we have been able to achieve in this difficult year. The Work Safely in Solar Industry program has now seen well over 600 enrolments state-wide, New Energy Technology Systems 2.0 with 100 pilot enrolments is near completion including the new design and install standalone systems competencies, in addition to the already piloted battery storage units, and the 30Kw-200Kw Medium Scale Renewables training project is on track for piloting in early 2021. Like most of your newfound workplaces, our 2020 projects have been driven from the kitchens, dining rooms, kids’ rooms, and garages of the FES team. Many entertaining moments with home schooling added to our working life!
One of our biggest accomplishments in 2020 has been the opening of the Regional Assessment Centrein Maryborough. With the support of our sponsors, we built a scaled version of the metropolitan assessment centre, ensuring assessment consistency, with apprentices not having to travel long distances to access the service. The Regional Centre opened in late September and has seen a steady stream of apprentices undertaking their LEA, with bookings continuing right up to end of year. In 2021, we aim to collaborate with all the Regional RTO’s in providing a more streamlined service between apprenticeship training and licensing assessment.
This year has certainly been one for development, and we are excited to see the uptake of camera use in our assessment areas. The High-Definition cameras were essential to continue service during COVID19 restrictions with the requirement social distancing, moving forward the camera’s have proven to be a great feedback tool for apprentices and assessors alike. Proof that we never stop learning from progress.
Delivering the LEA in 2020 has taken an enormous amount of additional work to normal times, many, many hours well after the apprentices have finished and results finalised have been spent cleaning and preparing the centre as expected during such times. – I take this opportunity to thank the FES assessors for the dedication this year and congratulate the apprentices who have shown a high amount of resilience in such trying times.
In 2021, we look forward to hopefully once again inviting teaching staff back into our centre for professional development, with the UEE20 new training package, Standards Australia and changes flagged for licensing assessments there is a lot of opportunity to learn from each other on the horizon.
So, to all our partners, stakeholders and supporters on behalf of the FES Board, I extend our wishes for your well-earned Christmas and New Year break. Eager to put 2020 behind us, let’s take a good break and look forward to 2021.
We are excited and look forward to working with you all next year, and again we thank you for your continued support.
Stay Safe
Alex Newman
Executive Officer
