The Tasmanian Forests and Forest Products Network Workforce + Diversity Project has led the charge, working with industry to develop a new Pilot Certificate IV Skill Set in Forestry Leadership, to be delivered by TasTAFE. 

The pilot skill set—which is now open for enrolment—is designed to grow the proficiencies and knowledge of forestry industry employees, equipping them to become future leaders. It is a new offering and is comprised of three units, including the two core units, from the Certificate IV in Forest Operations Qualification. These units were chosen by industry as they focus on safety, management and leadership – key skills for the forestry workforce.

Developed in close collaboration with industry, the Forestry Leadership Skill Set provides an opportunity for individuals and organisations to create real pathways and expand on career opportunities.

The TFFPN’s Workforce + Diversity Reference Group Chair, Brodie Frost, said the skill set will provide a well-rounded introduction for emerging leaders and supervisors in the forest sector.

“This is a great example of industry working together with an RTO to develop training that meets their specifications,” Mr Frost said.

“These units are a natural fit to build on existing training and skills and will help to keep people in our industry.”

Jillian Aylett Brown, CEO of MechLog, is passionate about creating pathways for industry employees.

“As an employer, I am excited to provide this opportunity to my staff and will be committing to participating in this training,” Ms Aylett Brown said.

“Key to this initiative is a workshop delivery model, where we have the opportunity to bring our current and future leaders together, to build connections across the industry and to develop their skills and knowledge,” she said.

Mr Frost said the success of the pilot initiative hinges on employers and their support of workers to enrol over the next three years.

“Without sustainable enrolment numbers year on year, developing and delivering such an important initiative for our industry will be difficult,” he said.

“We are thrilled to have MechLog already enrolled in this skill set and look forward to seeing other employers follow suit and sign employees up for the course.

“I encourage employers to express their commitment to this initiative through enrolling even just one single employee each year.”

The first workshop is scheduled for 23 January 2024, with enrolments closing mid-January.

The TFFPN’s Workforce + Diversity Project is assisted by the Tasmanian Government and is guided by a reference group of more than 25 industry representatives.

Go to TASMSS0241-V01 – Forestry Leadership Skill Set | TasTAFE to for more information or to enrol.