Engineering Cadetship Program Subsidy

Why this program matters

In today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry skills is crucial. The Engineering Cadetship Program offers a unique blend of theoretical learning and hands-on experience, preparing students for the challenges of modern manufacturing.

For employers, the MSQ’s investment reduces the cost for regional businesses that are committed to upskilling their workforce, making it more feasible to invest in training and development. It is also an opportunity to attract and retain skilled workers in regional Queensland to meet manufacturing industry needs.

Who is this subsidy for?

Manufacturing Skills Queensland is subsidising the CQUniversity Engineering Cadetship Program for:

Students

• New workers in the manufacturing industry
• Existing workers with trade-level occupations aspiring for supervisory roles
• Must be eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place in University’s Associate Degree in Engineering

Business

• Small or medium-sized enterprises (fewer than 200 employees)
• Based in or operating in regional Queensland. This includes businesses with a head office or operations in Southeast Queensland which meet the definition of a SME.
• Committed to upskilling their workforce and contributing to regional growth
• Must agree to share information with CQUniversity and MSQ including but not limited to their business name, locations, number of employees, and confirmation of employment status for each cadet in the program.

Cost

MSQ is providing a 50% subsidy on student contributions to course fees for eligible participants.

About CQUniversity

CQUniversity is one of the largest universities based in regional Australia, with campuses in Adelaide, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Cairns, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Melbourne, Rockhampton, Sydney, and Townsville. Along with these campuses, the University also partners with several of Regional Universities Centres (RUC’s) in regional and remote parts of Australia.

Investing in industry

Subsidising the Engineering Cadetship Program for students in regional Queensland is a key component of Manufacturing Skills Queensland’s (MSQ) Annual Training Plan for 2024-25, representing a significant investment in the future of Queensland’s manufacturing workforce.

As part of the $1.36 million allocated to the “Training and skills” priority area, this program addresses critical industry needs by equipping experienced manufacturers and technicians with essential skills. The initiative aligns with MSQ’s broader goal of building a sustainably skilled workforce for a future-proofed manufacturing industry.

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