Schools IRG | Manufacturing Skills Queensland

Connecting Queensland’s students with manufacturing and engineering career pathways

The Schools Industry Reference Group plays a pivotal role in shaping the future manufacturing workforce by connecting educational institutions with industry leaders. This group brings together representatives from key manufacturing companies, educational institutions, and government departments to provide strategic direction and ensure program activities remain aligned with current workforce needs and industry trends. The IRG’s diverse membership reflects our commitment to inclusive collaboration across the manufacturing and education ecosystems.

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About the group

The Industry Reference Group – Schools serves as an advisory body to support the strategic direction and implementation of the Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools Program (AMGISP). Through this collaborative approach, MSQ is building meaningful connections between Queensland schools and manufacturing employers, helping to inspire the next generation of manufacturing professionals. The IRG’s diverse membership ensures representation from state schools, non-state schools, manufacturing companies, training organizations, and government departments, creating a comprehensive ecosystem of stakeholders committed to developing future manufacturing talent.

What we discuss

By bringing together experts in manufacturing and education, we can collectively achieve more, driving innovation and workforce development across the manufacturing industry. The Industry Reference Group meets to:

Provide industry insights to inform program development and delivery
Ensure alignment between educational activities and industry workforce needs
Facilitate collaboration between schools, industry partners, and other stakeholders
Support the continuous improvement of the program through feedback and recommendations
Advise on current and emerging industry trends relevant to advanced manufacturing
Identify skill requirements and workforce development priorities
Support the development of educational resources and professional development for educators
Promote student engagement through industry-led activities and experiences
Evaluate the effectiveness of program initiatives and suggesting improvements

About the Gateway to Industry Schools Program

The Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools project empowers young people to make informed decisions about their future, bridging the gap between education and the workforce. This project is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.

Find out more

Key initiatives include:

Partnerships: Strategic collaborations with leading manufacturing companies to provide authentic industry insights and opportunities

Pathways: School tours, virtual reality experiences, and trade pathway programs that showcase manufacturing career opportunities

Participation: Work experience frameworks and structured workplace learning that align with QCAA requirements

Professional Development: Teacher training through webinars, hands-on workshops, and online learning resources

Our members

The Industry Reference Group consists of experts and leaders from manufacturing companies, educational institutions, and government departments to support a skilled and future-proofed workforce.

Louisa Loveday

Australian Industry Defence Network and Unique Laser

Medene Woods and/or Sarah Jane Gourley

Department of Education

Kylie Voevodin

Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development

TBC

Department of Trade, Employment and Training

Marie Previte

Edmund Rice– Flexi Schools (Non-state school)

Sharina Gibney

Glenala State High School (State School)

Melanie Alexander

Independent Schools Queensland (Non-state school)

Natalie Hallows

Major Training

Lauren Mangan

Manufacturing Skills Queensland

Georgi Tomlinson

Manufacturing Skills Queensland

Maddison Kirkpatrick

North Makay State High School (State School)

Dave Camper

PWR

Cam Pickering

Queensland Catholic Education Commission (Non-state school)

Catherine Howieson

Queensland University of Technology

Sue Sheppard

TAFE Queensland

Shenee Cave

The Drake Group

Become a member

Becoming a member of the Industry Reference Group – Schools involves active participation from manufacturing employers, educational institutions, and training organisations. Representatives from these entities contribute to the group’s initiatives by providing valuable insights, sharing industry-specific strategies, and collaborating on workforce development solutions to meet the evolving needs of the manufacturing industry. If you’re interested in becoming a member, contact us.

Join today

Guests and representatives

The Industry Reference Group – Schools extends special invitations to guests and representatives to present to the group. These invited guests often include industry experts, government officials, and representatives from educational and training institutions. Presentations cover a wide range of topics, including the latest industry trends, technological advancements, innovative teaching practices, and workforce development strategies. Connect with us to get involved.

Become a group member or join us as a guest

If you want to join this group or attend as a guest, please fill out the form to submit your interest.

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Industry Reference Group – Schools