Siemens supports Victorian Government’s Digital Jobs program

Siemens has announced it will support the Victorian Government’s $64 million Digital Jobs program that is designed to help 5000 mid-career Victorians reskill and upskill on much-needed digital skills. Joining other companies committed to the program, Siemens will train an intake of mid-career workers on key digital technologies used by some of the most well-known companies worldwide, making them more digital job-ready.

The program follows the success of Siemens’ previous Industry 4.0 Apprentice program that was launched along with Swinburne University and Australian Industry Group (Ai Group), as well as grants of the company’s high-tech industrial software to a national network of universities.

Speaking on the announcement, Jeff Connolly, CEO and Chairman of Siemens Australia said that digital readiness plays a critical role in Australia’s ability to innovate and create new pathways for growth.

“Digital preparedness is a constant process and happens throughout a person’s career. Gone are the days when you get a qualification early in your career and that sets you up for life. Societal expectations and technology developments are driving constant change, which means everyone needs to continually learn and adapt.”

Connolly is an advocate of on-the-job training being an important part of the learning mix. “A mix of academic learning and on the job application and training is a powerful combination and digital skills are critical. This not only makes you more employable, but it also opens up possibilities for business and society to look at ways to accelerate improved outcomes,” he said. “We’re delighted to support and participate in the Victorian Government Digital Jobs program.”

Siemens will host a selection from the first cohort of 450 participants scheduled to start industry placements in October.

Minister for Innovation Jaala Pulford said the government was committed to growing Victoria’s pipeline of tech talent.

“We know the demand for digital talent is increasing rapidly, and the Digital Jobs program has been designed to build our tech workforce and create new opportunities for Victorians,” she said. “It’s fantastic to see Siemens jumping on board. Not only will the participants benefit from learning in such a fantastic environment, but Siemens will get access to passionate and driven workers who could become long-term assets to the business.”

Participants will complete 12 weeks of skills training at a leading Victorian training provider in fields such as data analytics, web development, digital marketing, cloud computing and cybersecurity. Following the training, participants will undertake a 12-week paid internship with organisations such as Siemens to further develop their new skills.

For more information on the program visit vic.gov.au/digitaljobs.

Image caption: Jeff Connolly