SimTecT 2010 and the Simulation White Paper

SimTecT 2010 was held recently at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 31 – June 3, and once again highlighted the exciting developments in simulation over the past year.

As in previous years, SimTecT provided an unparalleled opportunity for simulation developers and users to discuss the needs and opportunities available across various industries, including health, aviation, defence, infrastructure, and of course resources. 

The Skills Centre had a large contingent at this year’s event delivering several Special Presentations as well as showcasing PROJECT CANARY – the first simulation based training tool for the resources industry. 

CEO Derek Hunter was also at the event – delivering the Simulation White Paper prepared by the Resources and Infrastructure Special Interest Group (SIG).  The Resources and Infrastructure SIG is a relatively new focus group of the Simulation Industry Association of Australia (SIAA).  The group was tasked with providing an overview of the current state of and potential for simulation across the Resources and Infrastructure industries.  For Mr Hunter and other members of the group, their work provides a foundation for further discussion on the options and benefits available to industry, and provides support for the continued investment, uptake and development of simulation.  

Strategically, our industry sits in the enviable position of being able to capitalise  on and apply the experiences of other fields where simulation use is more mature. 

The White Paper recognises that simulation is currently used in a number of ways throughout the resources and infrastructure industries - including systems and process modeling, forecasting, and heavy industry training.  Despite this, the continued uptake of simulation is slow, particularly when compared with other industries such as aviation and defence.  Strategically, our industry sits in the enviable position of being able to capitalise  on and apply the experiences of other fields where simulation use is more mature. 

The case for the introduction of simulation into all facets of business is compelling – with successes in other industries used as a guide for the long term planning of the resources and infrastructure industries.  The Paper highlights training, recruitment and retention and the creation of a new safety culture as key areas for implementing simulation. Key strategic issues of its implementation are outlined in the paper – including investment in training beyond boom/bust cycles; development of simulation literate trainers; and an understanding of site versus centralised training.

By undertaking this key piece of research, SIAA and the Resources and Infrastructure SIG clearly show their ongoing commitment to the planned uptake and development of simulation across industries.  As a peak body for the resources industry, the Skills Centre is continually looking for ways to enhance training processes and quality, improve learning outcomes and assure the safety of our workforce.  With the combined efforts of leaders across simulation, training and resources, this Simulation White Paper gives us the foundations to better explore and equip ourselves with the technologies for the future of our industry. 

To view the full Simulation White Paper please visit the Simulation Industry Association of Australia website, or click here.