Immersive Skills Lab opens at TasTAFE's Alanvale Campus

A virtual training hub that offers learners the chance to test their knowledge and skills before setting foot on a physical work site has opened in Launceston at TasTAFE’s Alanvale Campus.

Comprising virtual, augmented and mixed reality technologies, the Immersive Skills Lab presents benefits to learners, including apprentices and job seekers, and existing workers looking to reskill and upskill in training competencies using immersive technology.

“Our partnership with industry, stakeholders and government has produced an innovative learning hub offering simulated and virtual experiences to enhance learning and prepare work-ready graduates that support region-specific workforce needs,” said TasTAFE Interim CEO, Will McShane.

“As Tasmania’s advanced manufacturing and renewable energy sectors evolve and the demand for skilled workers grows, vocational education and training will play an even greater role in shaping the state’s economy.”

The Immersive Skills Lab project was developed by Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone (BBAMZ) in partnership with TasTAFE and with $250,000 in funding from the Tasmanian Government’s 2023–24 Industry Partnerships Program.

“This is next-level training – interactive, immersive and built for the real world,” said Minister for Skills and Jobs Felix Ellis.

“By harnessing cutting-edge technology, we’re fast-tracking job readiness and making sure our training system keeps pace with industry. Tasmania is open for business and TasTAFE is open to industry,” said Mr Ellis.

Will McShane said partnering with TasTAFE is widely recognised as mutually beneficial to all participants, and vital to training quality, learner success, and employer satisfaction.

“When industry and TasTAFE share a mutually agreed purpose the resulting partnership is the key to unlocking higher educational and skills attainment for learners that leads to higher rates of employment and higher levels of productivity and community participation.”

BBAMZ CEO Susie Bower said she was proud to see the culmination of "4 years of vision, grit and collaboration" come to fruition.

“What started as a bold idea is now a cutting-edge training space that will empower Tasmanians with immersive, hands-on skills for the future of advanced manufacturing.

“This lab is more than just technology – it’s a commitment to our region, our industries, and our people,” Susie Bower said.

Images clockwise L–R: Minister for Energy and Renewables Nick Duigan tries out the VR training simulator at the Immersive Skills Lab;  TasTAFE’s Immersive Skills Lab comprises virtual, augmented and mixed reality technologies offering learners the chance to test their knowledge and skills before setting foot on a physical work site; and  Minister for Skills and Jobs Felix Ellis and CEO of BBAMZ Susie Bowers open Tasmania’s first Immersive Skills Hub.