This landmark public-private partnership directly addresses the critical needs of Thailand's heavy machinery labor market, which faces a shortage of licensed and skilled operators. As a specialist in personnel development certified by Komatsu Japan, and with the capabilities of its state-of-the-art Asia Training & Demonstration Center (ATDC)—the largest in the ASEAN region, valued at over 875 million baht—Bangkok Komatsu Sales is partnering with the Department of Skill Development to establish the "Komatsu Operator Training Academy" as a central hub for this workforce development initiative.
Mr. Patarawut Phersale, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, stated, "The objective of this MOU is to jointly establish a national skill standard testing center for Level 1 bulldozer and motor grader operators, and to conduct training on the safe use and maintenance of hydraulic excavators. We aim to develop operators' skills to meet national labor standards, aligning with technological changes and market demands. This will enhance their career opportunities, enabling them to earn a stable income to support themselves and their families, and to serve customers with speed and accuracy, building trust and satisfaction."
Mr. Pranitan Phornprapha, President of Bangkok Komatsu Sales Co., Ltd., stated, "As the distributor and service provider for Komatsu machinery under the standards of Komatsu Japan, we are confident in our capabilities, backed by our expertise in a diverse range of equipment—including hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders, bulldozers, motor graders, and dump trucks—as well as our proficiency in personnel development. We are very grateful to the Department of Skill Development for this partnership. It is our sincere hope that together, we will develop a workforce with professional skills, enabling them to operate machinery safely and at peak efficiency. This will not only support the businesses of our customers and partners but also create stable and sustainable careers for Thai society."
The 'Komatsu Operator Training Academy' curriculum is fully supported by Bangkok Komatsu Sales, providing expert instructors, advanced simulation technology, and Komatsu heavy machinery for hands-on experience. The program is designed to equip trainees with skills for safe, efficient, and fuel-saving operation, as well as basic machine maintenance. Graduates will receive a certificate of completion. The academy offers two main course formats: a Foundation Course (5 days) for individuals with no prior experience, who will receive a joint certificate from Komatsu and the Department of Skill Development (free of charge), and an Advanced Course (2 days) for experienced operators seeking to upskill, who will receive a certificate from Komatsu. The pilot courses for the "Safe Operation, Use, and Maintenance of Hydraulic Excavators," sessions 1 and 2, have already been launched and were met with overwhelming interest.
This project not only addresses the labor shortage but is also a long-term investment in human capital, the heart of national development. Upgrading the skills of the Thai workforce to international standards will directly enhance the country's competitiveness, reduce reliance on foreign skilled labor, and build investor confidence. Furthermore, it facilitates the transfer of advanced technology and high safety standards from Japan to the Thai labor market. The academy plans to continuously develop and launch new courses covering other types of heavy machinery throughout the year. Interested individuals can follow updates on courses and application schedules on the Komatsu Thailand Facebook Fanpage or via Line OA: @komatsu_care.
