NZ manufacturers aspire to CNC training institute

MEDIA RELEASE
20 May 2009

New Zealand manufacturers aspire to world class Computer Numerically
Controlled (CNC) training institute

An industry led initiative could see New Zealand’s engineering and manufacturing industries benefit from the development of a Centre of Excellence to promote and train Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machining technology.

The proposed Centre of Excellence could decrease training costs and significantly improve the quality of training, and therefore lift New Zealand’s manufacturing competitiveness, say its supporters.

The idea has evolved from the Precision Engineering Strategic Advisory Group, who saw the need to develop a Centre of Excellence (CoE) capable of providing a world class CNC technology training solution. Strategic Advisory Groups representing a range of sectors are convened by industry training organisation Competenz to ensure industry input into training and qualifications.

The group commissioned two demand studies among New Zealand suppliers already using CNC Mills, Lathes and Multi-Task Machines to explore the potential for a purpose built training centre.

The results indicated that training outcomes could be significantly enhanced by moving approximately 17,000 hours per annum of onsite CNC training to a Centre of Excellence.

Respondents also expressed interest in advanced training in CAD/CAM software and the interface with machines, along with metal forming and shape cutting CNC technologies.

Chairperson of the CNC CoE Working Group, Peter Herbert said the over-riding view from industry stakeholders surveyed is that training onsite wastes valuable resources – machine time and senior staff hours – and has a negative impact on productivity.

“The quality of onsite training is also constrained by what any one firm knows, understands and can currently access,” he said. “Employers continue to train onsite due to the lack of a suitable alternative. Increased training opportunities will offer employers significant competitive advantages from the utilisation of cutting edge technologies.” The CoE Working Group are now inviting Expressions of Interest (EoI) from those capable of providing all, or part of a world class CNC training solution, and with the desire to be a strategic partner of a CNC Centre of Excellence.

Successful parties must have strong ties to industry and be able to demonstrate an understanding of industry needs.

“For the CNC CoE to be successful it is important that it meets the needs of industry,” explained Peter Herbert. “Courses must be relevant to their particular needs; they need to fill training gaps with up-to-date equipment, software and techniques, and must deliver improved performance and productivity.”

A collaborative approach, innovative ideas and the ability to engage international experts are also expected, he said.

The request for EoI document can be downloaded by visiting the MEA website http://www.mea.orgnz/document.ashx?id=541 and on the Government website for tenders via MED - www.GETS.govt.nz

Completed EoIs must be received no later than 1pm, Friday 10 July, 2009.

The CNC CoE Strategic Working Group included representatives from the New Zealand Manufacturers and Exporters Association (NZMEA), the Heavy Engineering Research Association (HERA), Plastics New Zealand and Competenz.

ENDS

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