Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools Project

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.

Industry insights

On average the manufacturing industry in Queensland employs more than 185,000 people annually
In the 2022-23 financial year, manufacturing in Queensland added $27.3 billion to the economy
In 2023 around 7,000 Queenslanders commenced an apprenticeship or traineeship in manufacturing

Advanced Manufacturing GISP in 2025

The Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools project will enter an exciting new phase in 2025. As host, MSQ will continue to champion student opportunities while introducing new programs including virtual reality experiences to enhance awareness of manufacturing.

The project’s evolution will place a stronger emphasis on empowering educators through comprehensive professional development initiatives and innovative teaching resources. This dual focus on both student engagement and teacher support aims to create a more robust pipeline of talent for the manufacturing sector. In late 2024, existing and new schools will be invited to apply to become a Gateway to Industry School.

About being a GISP AM school

The Gateway to Industry Schools project creates valuable partnerships between schools and industry leaders, offering students hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world applications. The project enhances curriculum delivery while providing educators with industry insights to better guide students toward career opportunities, including traineeships and apprenticeships.

Approved schools gain access to special programs, including virtual reality experiences, priority access to lesson plans and resources, pathway information, professional development, and industry tours. Through ongoing professional development, teachers stay current with industry trends and career information, helping students make informed decisions about their future. The integration of industry expertise into VET programs prepares students for successful workforce transitions.

Benefits for teachers

The project offers numerous benefits for teachers, enhancing their professional development and classroom effectiveness. Educators gain access to professional development opportunities, enabling them to provide students with up-to-date career guidance and relevant skill training. The program facilitates industry tours and networking opportunities, allowing teachers to forge valuable connections and gain real-world insights.

With priority access to specialised resources, lesson plans, and virtual reality experiences, teachers can create engaging, industry-aligned curricula. Professional development sessions and mentoring opportunities keep educators at the forefront of manufacturing trends, empowering them to inspire and prepare students for future careers.

How industry can get involved

If you’re a manufacturer, you can play a vital role in shaping the future workforce by actively engaging with the Gateway to Industry Schools Program. By registering to deliver career/industry talks, businesses can inspire and inform young minds about career possibilities in manufacturing. Hosting school-to-industry tours provides students with invaluable real-world exposure to modern manufacturing environments. Educator mentoring programs offer personalised guidance, helping teachers navigate the evolving world of manufacturing.

Businesses can also connect with schools to facilitate work experience placements and school-based vocational education and training opportunities, providing hands-on learning experiences. These collaborative efforts not only benefit students but also allow industries to cultivate a skilled talent pipeline, ensuring a bright future for the manufacturing industry.

What is manufacturing?

Manufacturing is the process of transforming raw materials or components into finished products through various methods of production, assembly, or fabrication. This systematic approach involves combining human labour, machinery, tools, and chemical or biological processing to create goods on a large scale for distribution and consumption.

We offer a variety of experiences designed to enhance knowledge in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) while developing best practices for nurturing talent in advanced manufacturing industries, including:

  • Aerospace and defence
  • Chemicals, hydrocarbon, and refining
  • Food and beverage
  • Furnishings and other products
  • General manufacturing and engineering
  • Meat and seafood processing
  • Pharmaceuticals and medical technology
  • Polymers, plastic, and rubber
  • Printing and graphic arts
  • Pulp, paper and packaging
  • Renewables and low carbon
  • Textiles, clothing, and footwear
  • Timber and wood

Teacher resources

Gateway to Industry Schools gain full access to a comprehensive library of training resources, including custom-made training lesson plans, activities and multimedia that complement classroom units for manufacturing, technology and engineering. Gateway to Industry Schools can utilise printable teaching materials, key industry links, and presentations, all designed to enhance classroom instruction and support teachers.

View resources

Manufacturing Matters – career pathways

Working in the manufacturing industry offers numerous advantages for those with the right mindset and skills. With a variety of flexible pathways, you can build a rewarding career and progress towards higher-skilled roles in the manufacturing industry.

Learn more

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This Gateway to Industry Schools program is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.

QLD Queensland
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