Greater Digital Skills Program to solve workforce challenges for region’s SMEs.
The Greater Whitsunday region is set to experience a significant boost in digital capabilities with the launch of the Greater Digital Skills Program.
This region-specific training program is tailored to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in addressing workforce challenges and skills gaps.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said Greater Digital Skills Program was one of five successful projects to receive round two of Jobs Queensland ‘Grow Your Own’ funding.
Ms Porter said the Greater Digital Skills Program will be launched at the Digital Futurist Forum on Tuesday August 13.
“The Digital Futurist Forum is the first event in the Greater Digital Skills Program and is the first step for local business owners and operators interested in improving and advancing their digital skills to address workforce challenges and improve productivity.
“The Greater Digital Skills Program aims to educate local businesses on the range of digital options that can support their business in these challenging conditions. Ms Porter said the Greater Digital Skills Program was part of GW3’s strategic workforce initiatives to develop a dynamic, responsive and capable workforce.
“Our region’s workforce is embracing the future, but we must equip businesses with cutting-edge skills to navigate workforces and prepare them to leverage new technologies.
“Offering hands-on, region-specific training, the program enhances team capabilities and bridges skills gaps, ensuring seamless digital transformation,” Ms Porter said.
At the Digital Futurist Forum businesses will hear from digital leaders Dr Catherine Ball and The Digital Guide Tracy Sheen, who will share insights on the latest digital trends and technologies.
Associate Professor Dr Catherine Ball is an academic, company director, bestselling author, futurist and visioner working across global projects where emerging technologies meet humanitarian, education and environmental needs.
Tracy Sheen has more than 30 years’ experience in marketing and technology and is the author of ‘The End of Technophobia’ Australia’s Business Book of the Year in 2021.
The program will be facilitated by Tracy Sheen, who will lead the series of masterclasses both face-to face and online.
During the masterclasses, businesses will receive mentorship and ongoing support from motivation, accountability, personalised advice along with tools to integrate new digital tools into their business to solve workforce challenges.
After the Digital Futurist Forum, Greater Whitsunday businesses will have the opportunity to submit an Expression of Interest for the Greater Digital Skills Program which will run from September 2024 to May 2025.
Submissions to be part of the Greater Digital Skills Program will close September 1, 2024, with successful applicants notified by September 10.
Greater Digital Skills Program is funded by Jobs Queensland through the Grow Your Own Regional Workforce Program and powered by the Queensland Government's Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.
Digital Futurist Forum Details:
Date: Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Time: :7.30 AM to 9:30 AM
Venue: Sky’s Function Room, Magpies Sporting Club, 1 Glenella Road, Mackay QLD 4740
Tickets: $35/head (Includes breakfast). You purchase your ticket here