Media Release: New research reveals opportunities to boost manufacturing appeal among young Queenslanders

• New research by Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) uncovers perceptions of manufacturing among young people, parents, and school influencers
• Findings highlight a disconnect between industry reality and public perception, presenting opportunities for targeted engagement
• MSQ calls for collaborative effort to showcase modern manufacturing and inspire the next generation of skilled workers

Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) has released groundbreaking research that sheds light on the perceptions of manufacturing among young Queenslanders, their parents, and school influencers. The study, commissioned to address the growing challenge of attracting talent to the manufacturing workforce, reveals both challenges and opportunities for the industry.

The research found that while young people recognise manufacturing’s positive societal impact and innovative nature, there is a persistent gap between the industry’s reality and public perception. Over 60% of students consider a manufacturing career unappealing, only 16% of young people surveyed said they find a career in manufacturing appealing, compared to 38% of parents who see it as an attractive option for their children.

CEO Manufacturing Skills Queensland Rebecca Andrews says the findings present a clear call to action for the industry.

“Our research paints a vivid picture of the challenges we face in attracting young talent to manufacturing. Despite the passion many of us have for the industry, there’s a narrow view of manufacturing jobs among young people, often seen as physically demanding and repetitive,” Ms Andrews said.

“We also uncovered a fascinating paradox. While manufacturing is perceived as less attractive compared to other industries, young people simultaneously recognise its positive societal impact and innovative nature. This presents a unique opportunity to enhance the appeal of manufacturing careers.”

Key findings from the research include:

• 84% of young people agree that careers in manufacturing contribute to society
• 62% believe manufacturing provides opportunities to work with the latest technology
• 61% of respondents feel there isn’t enough information about types of roles and careers in manufacturing
• Parents and schools are the main influencers on students’ career decisions

Negative stereotypes persist:

• 71% of students agree that a career in manufacturing involves working long hours.
• 16% strongly agree that working in manufacturing is boring.
• 56% of students are concerned that working in the manufacturing industry involves physically demanding work.
• Only 17% of young people agree that manufacturing is a safe industry to work in.

Ms Andrews emphasised the need for a collaborative approach to address these perceptions.

“To build a sustainably skilled workforce for a future-proofed manufacturing industry, we need to invest in the right tools to support the sector. This research gives us a baseline for strategic action. By clarifying career paths, promoting industry benefits, and showcasing the cutting-edge nature of modern manufacturing, we can attract the next generation of workers.”

“Now is the time for our industry to shape how young people view and engage with manufacturing,” Ms Andrews concluded.

“By working together – industry, educators, and government – we can ensure the growth and success of manufacturing in Queensland, creating exciting opportunities for the next generation of innovators and creators.”

The full research report, “Perceptions of Manufacturing Research: Young people, parents and school influencers 2024,” is available on the MSQ website.

For more information

Quinn Sunderland | [email protected]

Further information

The study reveals a complex landscape of perceptions that the industry must navigate. Despite technological advancements, there’s a paradox where 62% of students believe manufacturing provides opportunities to work with the latest technology, while 51% believe automation is taking manufacturing jobs. This highlights the need for clearer communication about the evolving nature of manufacturing roles.

A concerning trend has emerged with 22% of students and 34% of parents believing the industry is declining. This perception is likely influenced by high-profile closures in sectors like automotive manufacturing.

Gender bias remains a significant hurdle, with a persistent stereotype that the ideal candidate for manufacturing is male. This outdated view potentially discourages female students from considering the industry.

The research also uncovered a mismatch between educational emphasis and industry needs. While manufacturing has a significant demand for vocational education and training (VET) qualifications, there’s a strong emphasis on university pathways in schools. This misalignment potentially steers students away from manufacturing careers.

Competition from other industries emerged as another challenge. Sectors with higher visibility and stronger brand recognition—such as construction, automotive trades, and the defence forces—tend to receive more frequent recommendations from school influencers. This overshadowing of manufacturing opportunities is a concern.

Manufacturing Skills Queensland commissioned Enhance Research to undertake this research. The research involved qualitative data from school influencers and quantitative research with 200 high school students and school leavers aged 15 to 18 years, as well as 200 parents of 15 to 18-year-olds across Queensland.