New Industry Engagement Officer’s plans to upskill in the ag industry

Helping agricultural businesses across the region adapt to new challenges will be the focus of Elaine Wallace, who recently started as Toowoomba’s Industry Engagement Officer.

Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) in partnership with TAFE Queensland recently welcomed Ms Wallace to the role, which will provide unique upskilling opportunities.

Ms Wallace said she’s excited to use her wealth of experience to support local companies.

“With a background in agribusiness and regional communities, I’m committed to delivering training programs and courses that directly target any issues the ag industry may be facing.”

“I’m looking forward to working with TSBE members and the broader local sector to understand the skills shortages as well as future learning requirements,” said Ms Wallace.

In 2021, TSBE and TAFE Queensland delivered a number of industry workshops, covering topics including responsible water management, food safety risks and allergen labelling requirements.

Acting General Manager of TAFE Queensland’s South West region, Jenni Butler said agribusinesses in the region are highly adept in embracing innovation and opportunity.

“Our continued partnership with TSBE enables TAFE Queensland to identify the training challenges and needs of the agribusiness sector."

"Elaine's expertise in human resource capability development and her engagement with industry, combined with TAFE Queensland's agility to cater for emerging skill requirements, ensures southwest Queensland is well-positioned as a hub for rural excellence," she said.

The first workshop of 2022 will be held at the Rural Centre of Excellence on 1 March, focusing on leveraging data to maximise value.

Queensland analytics consultancy, Biarri, will explore the role of data and analytics to create insightful models, streamline inefficient business processes and make logical decisions.

They will uncover how organisations can optimise their data and resources, which will be beneficial to all agribusinesses.

TSBE Food Leaders Australia General Manager Bruce McConnel is encouraging companies to register for the workshop on www.tsbe.com.au.

“Our first workshop for the year is another example of the commitment for vocational education at the Rural Centre of Excellence, which is a fantastic resource for our region.”

“At TSBE we are proud of our partnership we have with TAFE Queensland and are excited to see this year’s workshops roll out,” said Mr McConnel.

For more information about the learning opportunities planned for 2022 contact Ms Wallace at [email protected].