Manufacturing Skills Queensland plays pivotal role in inaugural Brisbane event, connecting 200+ students with industry innovation.
Australian Manufacturing Week made its highly anticipated Queensland debut from May 12-14, 2026, at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, marking a significant milestone for the state’s manufacturing sector. Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) seized the opportunity to showcase the breadth of career pathways available in advanced manufacturing, hosting comprehensive school tours and industry engagement activities throughout the three-day event.
Inspiring the next generation
Over two dedicated days of school tours, MSQ welcomed more than 200 students from 13 schools across Queensland, providing them with firsthand exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and career opportunities. Students travelled from as far as Dalby, Toowoomba, and the Gold Coast to participate in the program.
Day 2 saw approximately 100 students and 12 teachers from Wavell State High School, Nerang State High School, Bremer State High School, Pine Rivers State High School, Wilsonton State High School, and Dalby State High School engage directly with leading industry exhibitors including SWI Machinery Inc, AMS – Aluminium Machinery Solutions, KUKA, Peddinghaus Corporation, and Capral Limited. Students explored advanced robotics, automation, precision machinery, and aluminium manufacturing, gaining valuable insights into the innovation shaping the industry’s future.
The final day featured students and educators from Ripley Valley State Secondary College, Palmview State Secondary College, Bray Park State High School, Yeronga State High School, and Bundamba State Secondary College. The enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by students throughout the tours highlighted the growing interest in manufacturing pathways among young Queenslanders.
A notable highlight included students meeting with the Hon Dale Last MP, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development to discuss the importance of supporting future workforce pathways into manufacturing and engineering.
Building industry-education partnerships
MSQ’s Australian Manufacturing Week 2026 Educator and Industry Networking Event brought together educators, industry representatives, and training partners to strengthen connections between classrooms and industry. The event provided valuable opportunities for attendees to hear from industry leaders, explore cutting-edge technology, and build stronger partnerships across the sector.
The AMW speaker program featured MSQ’s Senior Data Strategist Nathan Edwards presenting on “The Future of Trades in Manufacturing.” He shared insights from recent MSQ research on aligning training pathways with industry demand and how automation and digital technologies are reshaping trade roles, sparking valuable discussion on future workforce and skills needs.
Queensland excellence recognised nationally
The event also celebrated Queensland’s manufacturing achievements at the 2026 Manufacturers’ Monthly Endeavour Awards. The state’s innovation and talent shone brightly on the national stage, with local success stories recognised across multiple categories:
These achievements reflect the strength of Queensland’s manufacturing workforce and the cutting-edge capability emerging across the state—from advanced aerospace to digital health and infrastructure.
Looking forward
“The future of manufacturing in Queensland is bright, and it was fantastic to see so many young people inspired by the innovation, technology and career opportunities on display,” said Kris McCue, A/Chief Executive Officer, Manufacturing Skills Queensland.
The overwhelmingly positive feedback from both students and teachers underscored the value of creating opportunities for young people to engage directly with industry—a critical component in building the next generation manufacturing workforce.
The Gateway to Industry Schools Program is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.
25 May 2026