The Cobotic Welding Microcredential project, led by Weld Australia with support from the Centre’s QUT team, aims to address these challenges by delivering a series of microcredentials focused on welding automation using collaborative robots (cobots). The project is funded by a $228,000 grant from the Queensland Government and involves partners such as BOC and Diverseco. The microcredential will run from August 2024 to August 2025 and aims to train 200 individuals and 75 enterprises.
Problem
Australia is currently experiencing a significant shortage of skilled welders, with an estimated deficit of over 70,000 welders. This shortage has led to the metal fabrication industry operating at less than 50% of its required workforce capacity. Additionally, only about 20% of current welders meet the minimum international qualification standards, exacerbating productivity issues and hindering the industry’s competitiveness.
What We Are Doing
The team has been working together to create content for the module ready for its release in June 2025. The course aims to provide participants with a holistic view of cobot welding that covers not just the technological knowledge but the design, business and training aspects.
Course Content
- Introduction to Cobot Welding
- Benefits and comparison to traditional welding.
- Cobot Fundamentals
- Components, functionality, and best practices.
- Workplace Considerations
- Setup, maintenance, and safety.
- Investment Decision Making
- Cost-benefit analysis and real-world case studies.
- Post-Implementation
- Identifying new uses and maintaining skills.
Course Structure
- Target Audience: Supervisors/Managers, Advanced Welders, Apprentices
- Content Focus: Welding fundamentals, cobot applications, workplace readiness (safety, design, skilling)
- Format: Self-paced videos, reading materials, live Zoom sessions, and quizzes
- Modules: Introduction to cobot welding, cobot fundamentals, workplace considerations, investment decision-making, post-implementation
The Benefits
- Increased Efficiency: Cobots can significantly enhance production efficiency in metal fabrication.
- Industry Support: Benefits extend to mining, structural fabrication, defence, rail, pressure, and pipeline sectors.
- Workforce Development: Provides essential training to supervisors, advanced welders, and apprentices, addressing the skills shortage.
- Global Competitiveness: Helps maintain an international competitive edge by promoting automation technology.
The Impact
- Target Reach: Aim to train 200 individuals and 75 enterprises.
- Enhanced Productivity: Addresses the severe skills shortage and productivity issues in the Australian fabrication industry.
- Industry Awareness: Raises awareness of automation benefits, fostering a positive attitude towards technology adoption.
- Economic Health: Supports a productive metal fabrication industry, contributing to a healthier economy.
Project Timeline
- July 2024: Funding awarded
- August 2024: Agreement signed
- June 2025: Release of microcredential
- July–August 2025: Feedback from participants
- August 2025: Project Closes
Project Team