Recognising the critical need to prepare its workforce for the continual evolvement of transportation, Transit Systems, has launched its first pilot Electric Vehicle (EV) connect and disconnect training course, in partnership with TAFE NSW. This program is designed to equip maintenance staff with the essential skills needed to safely service and repair electric buses.

The pilot course, taught by TAFE NSW, focuses on the unit of competency AURETH101 - Depower and reinitialise battery electric vehicles. This nationally recognised unit covers the critical procedures required to safely depower high-voltage systems found in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) before any service or repair work can be conducted.

According to Phillip Cuomo, Teacher, Automotive Electrical, TAFE NSW, this pilot program is crucial for upskilling the current workforce in the rapidly advancing technology of electric vehicles.

“Ensuring that all maintenance staff at Transit Systems are trained and competent to work on electric buses is vital for their safety. The pilot program is important because it will help us to reflect and improve training in this new space of advancing technologies as well as allowing us to come together to learn, share individual experiences and knowledge to achieve effective outcomes.”

The students participating in this inaugural course are Transit Systems’ tradespersons and workshop supervisors, who all play a critical role in the maintenance of the company’s growing fleet of electric buses. Upon completion of the eight-hour course, which will be held at the Leichhardt depot, participants will receive a Statement of Attainment in Depower and Reinitialise Battery Electric Vehicles, a qualification that ensures they are fully equipped to handle the high-voltage systems in BEVs.

The partnership between Transit Systems and TAFE NSW was initiated by Robert Rachwal, NSW Fleet and Facilities Manager, Transit Systems, who recognised the importance of preparing his team for the future of transportation.

Robert says, “Our commitment to safety and innovation is at the core of everything we do. With a current EV fleet of 149 at Transit Systems, this training is about ensuring that our employees are protected as they adapt to new and advancing technologies. We’re proud to partner with TAFE NSW to deliver this essential training and look forward to expanding the program to more of our team.”

The course covers a range of topics including electricity fundamentals, high-voltage safety, Australian standards for EV operations, and manufacturer-specific procedures for depowering and reinitialising high-voltage systems in buses such as those from BYD, Yutong, and Custom Denning.

“I am excited to be part of this partnership with Transit Systems and TAFE NSW and I hope our working relationship continues to grow as this new technology evolves and becomes more widely adopted in the transport industry.” Phillip says.