VISTA is starting the year with an informal dinner event.
Cherry Cole, General Manager, IBSA and Robert Bluer, IBSA Industry Manager (Education), have been invited to give their impressions on how and what  IBSA, as an Industry Skills Council has planned for 2009.  Of particular interest will be the IBSA focus on the education “industry” and what key challenges IBSA sees are emerging for the VET sector over 2009.  As this is an informal event VISTA would like the opportunity for an easy conversation over dinner which provides an overview of the IBSA directions and challenges for 2009 as well as an opportunity for attendees to ask questions.

 Event details:

Where: Dimattina's 306 Lygon St Carlton

When: 21 January, 2009

What time: start at 6.30pm finish by 10 pm

Cost: VISTA members $45; non members $65.

Includes: 2 course set menu and coffee / tea.  Drinks are available at bar prices

For any special dietary requirements, please contact admin@vista.org.au or ring (03) 9328 8349

About IBSA
Innovation and Business Skills Australia (IBSA) is one of eleven Industry Skills Councils for the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system recognised and funded by the Australian Government. IBSA covers:

Business Services;
Cultural and Related Industries;
Education;
Financial Services;
Information and Communication Technologies; and
Printing and Graphic Arts.
IBSA develops competency standards and qualifications for workforce skills development and training that are recognised throughout Australia.

It is IBSA's job to consult with industry and set the skill standards for the above industries – standards that help employers and their teams achieve peak performance.

Cherry Cole, General Manager

Cherry has over 15 years experience in the vocational education and training (VET) sector. During that time she has managed multiple projects relating to the national ICT Training Package and support material activities; developed concept and strategy papers for key players in the IT&T industry Skills Taskforce forum; written various ICT labour market reports; established national, state and territory networks in the ICT and VET sectors; and held various board appointments.
Prior to joining IBSA, Cherry operated her own consulting business with a primary focus on people and organisation effectiveness, business development and change management.
Previously, Cherry held general management and human resource roles in the telecommunications, information technology and federal, state and local government sectors.
Cherry is a Certified Professional with the Australian HumanResources Institute (CAHRI). She has held a number of industry and VET Board positions, including Ex-officio Board Member of the Australian National Training Authority, Chair of the Standards & Curriculum Council and Director of the National Training Board.

Robert Bluer, Industry  Manager (Education)

Robert has authored and co authored many reports regarding VET over the years including reports regarding teh quality of teaching.  Robert participated in a VISTA event last year which explored the challenges of "skill sets versus qualifications" within the VET system.