ACE: Automotive Centre of Excellence

CEO Announces Plans for Next Stages of the Automotive Centre of Excellence

5 November 2007

Kangan Batman TAFE CEO Ray Griffiths announced the plans for the second and third stages of the award-winning Automotive Centre of Excellence development to over 100 high-profile industry guests on Thursday 1 November 2007.

After highlighting the many achievements at the ACE, Kangan Batman TAFE CEO Ray Griffiths revealed the plans for the Automotive Centre of Excellence's second and third stage.

'As this first stage houses only the vehicle body trades training, the second will house the remainder of Kangan Batman TAFE's already extensive automotive trades training as well as some manufacturing capability,' said Mr Griffiths. 'Heavy and light vehicle mechanics, motorcycle and marine mechanics and light engines apprentices have access to the most advances training facilities in the Southern Hemisphere.

'We are grateful to the Victorian Government for giving us a $30 million head start for stage two.'

Mr Griffiths highlighted the need for automotive retail service and repair, and manufacturing sectors for a strong research and development base.

'If stages one and two are predominantly about developing RS&R technicians now, then stage three will ensure we have a future for Australian manufacturing through knowledge development and innovation,' Mr Griffiths said.

He also thanked the Victorian Government and automotive industry partners, particularly the VACC, PPG, Wurth and Repco for helping drive the Automotive Centre of Excellence initiative.

'Automotive industry support will be integral to the success of the second and third stages of the development – so help us make the Automotive Centre of Excellence synonymous with industry,' said Mr Griffiths.

For more information on the Automotive Centre of Excellence visit www.aceauto.com.au or call 13 4 ACE.

High resolution photos and video links to keynote speeches available on request.