Global Minds, Local Impact: Students Consider the Manufacturing Recruitment Challenge

Last month the Study Queensland Innovation Challenge brought together diverse talent to address workforce challenges in Queensland’s manufacturing industry. The event, held in Townsville, saw international students and tertiary education providers in the region collaborate with industry representatives to develop innovative solutions for diversifying the manufacturing workforce and creating new employment pathways for migrant students.

Study Queensland’s Innovation Challenges are collaborative initiatives that connect international students with Queensland industries to develop innovative solutions for real-world challenges. By bringing together diverse perspectives and fresh thinking, the Challenge creates valuable opportunities for students to apply their skills in practical contexts while helping local businesses address complex workforce and operational issues.

Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) participated in this dynamic initiative, working alongside students to explore barriers to employment and identify opportunities for positive change in the industry.

MSQ’s industry engagement manager for renewables, Crissy Avery who attended the challenge said the creativity and innovative thinking was impressive.

“The event gave stakeholders the opportunity to work alongside talented students to gain credible perspectives barriers for different industries, including manufacturing.

“Each student in the group was able to provide creativity and contributed unique perspectives and bold ideas on initiatives that would support the manufacturing industry to broaden their workforce capabilities and increase employment opportunities to Queensland’s migrant students,” said Crissy.

The student participants, representing diverse academic backgrounds and global perspectives, developed an assessment-driven internship model specifically tailored to Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) manufacturers. The proposed solution leverages strategic partnerships, shadow internships, and digital transformation to identify skills gaps and drive measurable ROI for businesses.

“These innovation workshops serve as a critical bridge between academic learning and industry realities, giving students invaluable insights into the challenges businesses face every day,” said Crissy.

During the workshop, students gained valuable insights into the manufacturing industry and the broad range of opportunities available regardless of their field of study.

Study Queensland facilitated the challenge as part of ongoing efforts to connect international education with industry needs across the state.

MSQ would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Study Queensland for creating this opportunity and enabling our participation.

Interested in learning more about Study Queensland? Visit their website https://www.studyqueensland.qld.gov.au/