Charles Darwin University developed diploma of advanced manufacturing

Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) has developed the new Diploma of Advanced Manufacturing to assist NT manufacturers in transitioning to Industry 4.0.

This is in partnership with the North Australia Centre for Autonomous Systems, in partnership with RMIT University, the Australian Government’s Department of Education, and the Northern Territory government.

Industry 4.0 is the full integration of cyber and physical production systems and has been heralded by industry leaders as the fourth industrial revolution, with the benefit of reducing costs and wastage while improving the competitiveness of businesses.

In the course, students will learn how to manage Industry 4.0 projects, set up the Internet of Things (IoT) on production lines, test cyber security technologies, and integrate 3D printing and robotics into manufacturing.

They will also study computer-aided design and manufacturing, Industry 4.0 fundamentals, and project management – positioning them as graduates at the forefront of emerging technologies.

Professor Hamish Campbell, director of the North Australia Centre for Autonomous Systems (NACAS) at CDU said Industry 4.0 technologies are particularly effective in enabling manufacturers to overcome labour shortages and the challenge of distance.

“This Diploma has been created in partnership with RMIT and the Federal and Northern Territory governments to upskill the NT workforce and overcome these inherent problems for industry and business in North Australia,” he said.

“It’s an exciting course and we have 20 free places for employer sponsored apprentices commencing in March 2023”.

As an apprenticeship program, the course provides practical experience to upskill the Northern Territory workforce, generating strong capabilities to operate cyber and physical production systems.

The course also offers students the option to learn how Industry 4.0 manufacturing is being applied to the construction of uncrewed aerial vehicles (drones), giving the opportunity to work alongside researchers and small-to-medium enterprises to construct and test drones.

Steve Rogers, innovation professor and vice chancellor research said the centre’s collaboration with CDU will prepare graduates with the industry knowledge and skills to pursue a rewarding career within Australia’s rapidly growing advanced manufacturing sectors.

“Emerging autonomous technologies are a key investment in northern Australia, and our partnership with the centre will guide CDU to become a leader in autonomous technology research and training,” he said.

“CDU graduates have great potential to contribute to these emerging technologies and apply their knowledge to programs that will enhance Territory-based projects happening now and in the future.”

With this diploma, students may qualify for entry-level engineering roles or continue studies in engineering, and digital technologies at CDU.

The course commences in early March 2023 and places are currently open. To apply, students require a CERT III or CERT IV in relevant subjects or have manufacturing experience.

Those with endorsement and study release from their employers can enrol for free.