Central Coast Council libraries are using innovative technology platforms to upskill the community and help create the workforce of the future.

As skills needed for work become more technology-based, council libraries have been at the forefront of offering courses and platforms aimed directly at young people, including workshops on 3D printing, coding and gaming.

Council’s Group leader of Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the jobs landscape was changing dramatically and young people today will forge careers not seen before. Libraries are a key to helping them gain the skills and interest they need to succeed.

“We have had a coup in getting a 3D printing company that printed the Death Star in the latest Star Wars movie (Rogue One) to present a workshop on 3D printing . This technology is taking off in the movie world and will become more widespread, ” Ms Vaughan said.

“This is a unique opportunity to learn new skills that will be invaluable in the future workplace.”

“Council is passionate about providing opportunities for residents to learn new and relevant skills as we move further into the technology age.”

“3D printing is already used in a range of industries, including medical science, car manufacturing, aviation and household items…it is believed 3D printing will be as common as paper printing in the future.”

The workshop will be held at the Blue Haven Community Centre at 10am on 17 January.

Participants in the 3D printing workshop will be guided through the process of designing their own plastic pen with their name on it.  After the class 3D Printing Studios will create the pen and send it to participants.

Council is also running computer gaming workshops on 21 January and 4 February at 10am at Tuggerah Library.

Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said making libraries a community learning space and technology hub reflected council’s desire to invest in the community and stimulate economic growth.

“With a growing population we will need more businesses to open on the Coast. If we can help upskill residents so they are fluent in cutting edge technologies, businesses are more likely to move here,” Mr Reynolds said.

“Technologies such as 3D printing will soon be a part of daily life and Council is committed to providing educational opportunities through our libraries that are in line with what employers of the future will be looking for.”

Bookings are essential.

3D printing workshop: Blue Haven Community Centre, 17 January, 10am to 1pm. Cost is $10. Phone: 4350 1570.

Gaming workshop: Tuggerah Library, 21 January and 4 February, 10am to 11am. Cost is $45. Phone: 02 4350 1560.