TAFE NSW & SAS collaborate to address data skills gap

The Institute of Applied Technology Digital (IATD) at TAFE NSW Meadowbank has collaborated with SAS to address Australia's data skills gap.

The partnership aims to redefine technology education within the state. The initiative features a 10-week training course called the Data Analytics Work Integrated Learning Program, designed to enhance essential technical and enterprise skills including critical thinking, problem-solving, data visualisation, data modelling, and machine learning.

The newly introduced programme is part of a broader Data Pathway at IATD, which includes multiple microcredentials.

These credentials encompass Understanding Data Analytics, Data Visualisation Foundations, Python for Data Analytics, and Work Integrated Learning - Data Analytics with SAS. Students who complete at least two of these microcredentials are eligible to participate in the Work Integrated Learning Program. Completion of this pathway can provide credits towards degrees at the University of Technology Sydney, Macquarie University, and TAFE NSW Higher Education, facilitating accelerated education in critical technology skills.

The collaboration is also supported by the NSW Department of Education and involves industry partners such as Microsoft and the aforementioned universities. The aim is to provide students with a blend of theoretical learning and practical hands-on experience to meet the growing demand for digital and data skills in Australia's diverse industries.

Helen Fremlin, Director of Operations at the Institute of Applied Technology, remarked on the collaboration, stating, "IATD is committed to providing students with access to high-quality education and training that meets the needs of industry. The Data Analytics Work Integrated Learning Program offers a unique blend of theoretical learning and hands-on exposure to real-world challenges, panel presentations, and mock interview training."

"Developed with SAS, the programme will deliver innovative learning opportunities to prepare students for careers in AI and data analytics, enhancing their employability in the rapidly evolving jobs market."

Craig Jennings, Vice President of SAS for Australia and New Zealand, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the industry's skills gap. "There is a significant gap between what the industry expects from graduates and market demands in today's data-driven world. Our collaboration with the IATD reaffirms our commitment to democratising data and AI and building the nation's proficiencies," he said. Jennings also pointed out the relevance of the new programme for those seeking a career change or looking to expand their current skill set. "At SAS, we work with organisations across sectors, such as retail, health, utilities, and finance, and we are recommending they consider their workforce participation in this new programme, as they seek to maximise data for smart and innovative decisioning," he added.

The programme aims to cover various key areas, including AI, data, cloud computing, cybersecurity, governance, and software development. The first cohort is set to commence in September 2024. Reflecting on the benefits of the microcredentials offered by IATD, recent graduate Shuman Partoredjo described the experience as transformative.

"Having completed the IAT Microcredential, Understanding Data Analytics, it has been a personal game-changer for me. In rapid, but do-able, turnaround time I earned, not just a credential that I could proudly show to the world; but the confidence and capacity to go to market and show what I have to offer, and to think, build and deliver from a solid basis," he shared.

The NSW Government supports the programme, offering eligible residents access to the Data Analytics Work Integrated Learning Program at a subsidised rate.

The aim is to make the programme accessible to aspiring data professionals, school leavers seeking flexible entry into digital roles, and current workers wishing to upskill or pivot their careers.