Chisholm Institute invests in latest engineering technology making trained apprentices ‘industry ready’
Upgraded modern facilities at Chisholm Institute and the introduction of the latest Okuma CNC Mill-Turn Lathes and Machining Centres, provides superb engineering training opportunities for Certificate IV Engineering trainees making them industry ready and competent with the latest technology.
As part of this major investment at the Chisholm Institute Dandenong campus, three high end Okuma CNC Vertical Machining Centres model MB-46VII with OSP-P500M control and three Okuma CNC Lathes Model LB3000EXIII MYCx450 with OSP-P500L control have been commissioned along with extensive tooling and work-holding upgrades to the existing 25- to 30-year-old well-maintained older machines on the floor.
Some 800 students pass through these advanced engineering facilities with 500 apprentices, 45 trained per year in advanced CNC machining in their fourth year Certificate IV and this number is expected to rise to more than 100.
Certificate IV students spend approximately fifty percent of their course time on these advanced Okuma CNC machines in a simulated work environment. In this spotless engineering workshop trainees are responsible for maintaining the immaculately clean working environment with workplace skills embedded into the training. Students also have exposure to Coordinated Measuring machines (CMM) and the latest design software including SolidWorks and Mastercam.
Such is the cleanliness, high-level of skills and opportunities in this and many industry engineering shops today, fitting and turning qualifications are attracting increasing numbers of young men and women and growing each year.
With support from the TAFE Technology Fund (an Australian Government initiative) a total of $1.95 million has been invested to make this one of the most advanced engineering training facilities with highly skilled teaching staff also undertaking training from Okuma.
The facilities were officially opened on 14 July 2026 by The Hon Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills & Training, supported by Victorian State representatives. Minister Giles commented, “Our investment means students have the opportunity to obtain first-hand knowledge in the latest technology and build invaluable skills within the industry, improving career pathways that will open up to them.”
Matthew Baker, Chisholm Institute Manager – Engineering commented, “This investment represents a significant step forward for engineering education at Chisholm Institute. By providing access to industry-standard CNC machining and advanced manufacturing technology, we are ensuring our students develop the technical skills, problem solving capabilities and workshop readiness that modern manufacturers demand. With around 800 students expected to benefit from these facilities each year, we’re helping build the next generation of highly skilled engineering professionals who will support the growth of Victoria’s manufacturing sector,” he said.
Aimee Dixon, Certificate IV Engineering CNC Programming Student commented “The new facilities have created a modern and professional learning environment where we’re encouraged to challenge ourselves and develop highly technical skills. It’s exciting to have access to these machines as it allows us to develop the necessary skills to excel in our chosen fields and contribute to manufacturing Australian made products” she said.
Dean McCarroll, Okuma Managing Director, Australia and New Zealand commented: “At Okuma Australia we are committed to supporting educational institutions like Chisholm to access the latest Okuma CNC machines and local training support for both teachers and students. By bridging the gap between education and industry, we will help strengthen local manufacturing capability, improve workforce readiness and contribute to the long-term growth of Australia’s advanced manufacturing sector.”
To attract young people to engineering careers six careers’ expos are conducted each year, close liaison is maintained by Chisholm with school careers advisors and industry tours are arranged to expose students to future job opportunities.
Importantly, one of the keys to Chisholm Institute’s success is their commitment to establishing partnerships with industry to know and fully understand the rapid advancements in automation, precision engineering and smart manufacturing ensuring graduates entering the workforce are equipped with practical job-ready skills. With the adoption of state-of-the-art CNC equipment, students learn on the same equipment used by industry and training providers can develop a highly skilled workforce which addresses critical skills shortages, strengthens local manufacturing capabilities and helps secure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of Australia’s manufacturing capability.
Board Chair, Dr Gillian Miles-AM, said the investment supports Chisholm’s vision of empowering local communities through education.
“The modernisation of our engineering training facilities exemplifies how Chisholm offers an excellent learning environment that meets the needs of industry, students and the local community,” said Dr Miles.
State and Federal Governments play an important role in supporting and keeping pace with development and advances in manufacturing as is evidenced through this investment.