RMIT University, has appointed a new leader within its International Centre of Graphic Technology (ICGT) following the controversial departure of Robert Black last year. Simon Cochaud has taken on the role of ICGT director with plans to tackle industry skills shortages and implement new education programmes.
Prior to joining RMIT University in January, Cochaud was manager - marketing and media - school of business, at Swinburne University, where his role was to manage a portfolio of six academic streams including, marketing, international trade, retail management, advertising, public relations and property.
Prior to joining the VET Sector, Cochaud held a number of senior positions in advertising agencies including commercial manager – HMA Blaze, and print production director at Cummins and Partners and also the AJF Partnership. During his 14 years in advertising production he managed varied print and digital campaigns for clients such as Holden, Emirates, Kmart and Virgin Blue.
Cochaud outlines that his focus will be working with industry partners both locally and internationally to bring ICGT in line with the changes in graphic communications technology as well as aiming to reduce skills shortages with the implementation of a new national programme of digital printing at certificate 2 and 3 levels.
He says, "This focus will ensure we position ICGT as the benchmark within Australia and internationally to deliver quality programmes for a dynamic changing industry.
"Currently we are undertaking an internal programmes review, assessing each programme, its structures, and delivery methodology and career and employment outcomes from the student's perspective."
Since taking on the top job, Cochaud has overseen the inception of several new initiatives including a school based apprenticeship programme, where students spend three days per week at school, one day at the ICGT and one day at an employer for 12 to 18 months before receiving a certificate 2 in printing.
Other initiatives under consideration will revolve around a design focus, ISO accreditation, lean manufacturing and sustainability, according to Cochaud. While further programmes under development are confidential at this stage, Cochaud says it's likely they will change the print and integrated communications educational landscape.
