Engineering, Electrotechnology and Mining

TAFE SA students gain excellent practical skills at a technician level, in the design and implementation of hardware and software for electronics and computer systems technology. Graduates can find employment as technical officers, servicing technicians and electronics/computer systems assemblers. In the computer systems engineering field, graduates may find faults, install and administer complex computer networks and networking equipment and micro-processor based technology. In the electronics engineering field, graduates may install, commission, maintain or design electronics systems and equipment like robotic assemblies, satellite and radar communications or audio visual equipment. If you are considering a career where you work with leading edge technology in an exciting and fast-paced industry then electronics and computer systems engineering is the right choice. Electronics is the enabling technology that provides the medium for communications and entertainment; guards health and safety; and facilitates the creativity and productivity of the community. TAFE SA offers certificate, diploma; advanced diploma qualifications which could lead to employment in any of the electronics, defence, mining, biomedical and entertainment industries.

Qualifications in this area give students excellent knowledge and practical skills at a technician level, in drafting or design for employment in engineering. Qualifications in this area may lead to para-professional status and associate membership of Engineering Australia. Workers support or supplement the work of professional engineers by preparing drawings and specifications, designing to requirement, calculating and costing projects, coordinating and programming tasks, project management, testing materials and developing quality control techniques. Demand for design and drafting workers comes from enterprises that include consulting engineers, engineering contractors, manufacturing, municipal authorities, the defence industry, research, mining, government departments, wine and beverage making and various laboratories. In the current climate of growth in the defence industry and mining, South Australia is facing a significant shortage of workers in this area.

Graduates of the pre-apprenticeship training are equipped with the skills to seek apprenticeships in mechanical trades such as Fitter and Turner, Maintenance Fitter, Toolmaker, Machinist, CAD Drafter, and CNC Operator.
Graduates of the higher level courses can enter into career paths in process plant drafting, industrial automation and robotics, computer aided or manual drafting, plant maintenance supervision, general engineering and technical positions (such as research and laboratory assistants, technical inspectors, and quality control specialists).

Australia's world-class minerals industry encompasses exploration, mining and processing of minerals to basic mineral commodity stage. It is acknowledged internationally for its capability - from exploration to mine completion, innovative equipment and services, and associated research. With Australian exports worth $90.8 billion (2006-07), the combined exploration, mining, processing and energy sectors led all other Australian industry sectors. These courses provide fundamental training for employment as a mineral exploration field assistant, pit technician and underground sampler. Employment opportunities are also available in geotechnical, foundation/construction; mineral exploration; waterwell; and environmental drilling.