The college, expected to open in July, aims to groom teenagers, especially indigenous youth, for a career in the resources sector.

It will offer Year 11 and 12 students in the geographically isolated region the opportunity to complete their academic studies while training in a traditional trade in demand in the Pilbara.

The college will operate in partnership with existing Pilbara schools and training facilities in South Hedland, Karratha, Roebourne, Onslow, Tom Price and Newman.

It will offer training in engineering, construction, electro-technology, automotive and commercial cookery trades.

“This Australian Technical College will provide the Pilbara community with a first-class educational institution that will help meet the increasing demand for skilled tradespeople in the Pilbara region,” Federal Vocational and Technical Education Minister Gary Hardgrave said yesterday.

He said the industry-led governing body would ensure that the college responds directly to the needs of local industry in the region.

The college has been backed by the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association in strong partnership with the local resources industry, the WA Chamber of Minerals and Energy, the Australian Government and the WA Government. Resource giants Woodside Energy, Chevron Texaco, BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto are also involved.

The Federal Government has pledged $343.6 million over five years to 2009 to establish and operate 25 Australian Technical Colleges across Australia.