Arming a new workforce for Geelong

The Gordon Institute of TAFE has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Hanwha Defense Australia as the two entities partner to deliver Hanwha’s Australian manufacturing workforce. 

Hanwha has been selected as the sole tenderer to bid for LAND 8116, a $0.9 billion to $1.3 billion project which will see the Commonwealth acquire self-propelled artillery systems to be manufactured in the Greater Geelong area of Victoria.

In conjunction with Hanwha, The Gordon will undertake a thorough analysis of training needs to determine the precise learning and development requirements to build and sustain a skilled local workforce that can manufacture and maintain various capabilities for the Australian Defence Force.

The Gordon’s CEO Joe Ormeno stated, “The Gordon has the capabilities, expertise and experience to support Hanwha in its bid to secure this project. And with the support of our Skills and Jobs Centre, we have the means to engage a robust recruitment and training strategy that will ensure a workforce capable of meeting the expected demands.”

A large number of specialised roles across manufacturing and engineering are required to deliver the project, from the initial program setup through to ramp up and the ongoing production phase. “On completion of recruitment and training through The Gordon, individuals will possess the skills to proficiently carry out their assigned job tasks for the duration of this project”, said Mr Ormeno.

“A strategy for employing skilled individuals in a timely manner is vital for developing an advanced defence manufacturing industry in Geelong,” said Mr Richard Cho, Managing Director of Hanwha Defense Australia. “By partnering with The Gordon I am confident that Hanwha will be able to recruit and develop the workers we need from the local community.

“Partnering with an iconic local institution such as The Gordon will greatly help Hanwha’s integration into the local community.” Mr Cho said.

The Gordon’s Executive Director Commercial Business Jana Perera stated, “This collaboration would provide a strong foundation to learn from each other to develop education and training programs and also the opportunity to offer study tours in Australia and South Korea operated by Hanwha Defence Australia.” 

The Gordon has a long history of partnering with local manufactures having sustained 50 and 60 year relationships with Alcoa and Ford until their recent closure. The Institute now looks forward to commencing a successful and enduring partnership with Hanwha Defense Australia.