Australia’s manufacturing sector is at a turning point, redefining the industry and its processes with new technology. The country is seeing a rise in renewable energy systems for mining and manufacturing applications. Leading electrical engineering and manufacturing companies are adopting more sustainable production practices to reduce their environmental impact. To match this shift, the industry needs to shift technical expertise to drive the industrial pivot and meet the skills gap in creating and servicing new sustainable technology.
Building this capability starts with a green workforce, prepared for the introduction of sustainable technologies. New learning pathways, such as micro-credentials, provide Australians with the opportunity to develop and upskill the skills necessary to keep pace with industry changes towards more sustainable manufacturing practices and technology.
Sustainable manufacturing is the shift from more traditional linear manufacturing methods to sustainable circular alternatives. A key consideration in sustainable manufacturing is the introduction of new technology that requires a different set of skills compared to traditional manufacturing. An example is that skills needed to manage hydrogen power and battery systems, while not without crossover, open a skill gap in the current workforce. This movement will look like a strategic and continuous improvement approach to sustainability, aligned with both local and federal government initiatives improving workplace safety, environmental and quality standards.
For workers entering the industry or those still practicing traditional manufacturing, it’s vital to upskill with to close the gap between traditional and sustainable technologies.
Technical and analytical skills include:
Soft skills include:
A significant focus has been placed on NSW and QLD micro-credentials, which enable individuals - especially those already in manufacturing - to transition easily from traditional to sustainable systems.
New South Wales: Renewable Energy Microskills with TAFE NSW
TAFE NSW's renewable energy microskills were introduced in 2023 to support the net-zero transition directly. Some of these include hydrogen energy fundamentals, EV charging station knowledge, introduction to wind farms, and emergency response for electric vehicle incidents, with many delivered in partnership with EnergyCo, to give communities in NSW’s Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) direct access to career-relevant training.
These skills are designed to prepare workers for the state’s clean energy future, readying them for:
• Energy storage systems
• Grid-connected solar PV design
• Wind energy conversion systems
• Foundations of renewable energy and sustainability
View TAFE NSW renewable energy courses
Queensland: Clean Energy Micro-Credentials with TAFE Queensland
Much like TAFE NSW, TAFE Queensland offers a dedicated Clean Energy micro-credential course designed to support workers in the renewable energy and clean technology sectors. These courses cover emerging technologies and industry practices, including hydrogen fundamentals, electric vehicle systems, and sustainable energy practices.
Delivered through short, affordable, and self-paced online programs, these micro-credentials are highly accessible for busy workers in the Australian manufacturing sector. Not only do they build talent for the jobs in high demand, but they also lead to other certifications and courses to help fast-track the green workforce.
Explore TAFE Queensland Clean Energy courses
Helping the sustainable manufacturing movement thrive depends heavily on the workforce. While Micro-credentials are a practical and achievable step to adapting workforce capabilities, some argue that real-world project experience is also needed to develop the skills that will be essential to enabling the energy transition.
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