In an exciting stride forward fostering innovation, education and industry growth, the Australian Industry Trade College (AITC) Maroochydore school has partnered with the Manufacturing Excellence Forum Sunshine Coast (MEFSC).

Queensland’s manufacturers are looking to diversify how they recruit employees, trainees and apprentices.

The AITC is a high school that allows students to start an apprenticeship or traineeship while completing senior school, allowing students to get a head start on their career.

The MEFSC stands as a beacon of opportunity for the region’s manufacturing sector.

The partnership between the AITC and MEFSC marks a significant milestone in shaping the future of manufacturing on the Sunshine Coast.

Tim Kelly, Director, MEFSC, says the partnership between MEFSC and the AITC Maroochydore represents a transformative step in redefining the future of STEM education and the manufacturing industry.

“With the AITC’s forward-thinking educational approach and our industry insights, we’re nurturing a generation of young minds to see manufacturing as what it has the potential to be,” said Tim.

“Students will be provided networking opportunities and hands-on experience, allowing them to develop practical skills that are directly applicable to the manufacturing industry.”

“Students will be able to graduate with the skills and knowledge sought after by employers,” Tim added.

Principal Nick Harrison, of the AITC Maroochydore, expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership.

He said, “Our mission is to bridge the gap between education and industry.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with MEFSC as it aligns perfectly with our commitment to preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world,” Nick added.

By forging connections between educators, manufacturers, and thought leaders, the AITC Maroochydore/MEFSC partnership seeks to inspire and empower the next generation of manufacturing leaders.

As a means of celebrating this new partnership and demonstrating the value of local supply chains, the MEFSC October event will be held at the AITC with Bella Manufacturing and Eniquest.

Bella Manufacturing fabricate a range of food trucks, food trailers and shipping container conversions into commercial kitchens, including the fleet of well-known mobile pizza kitchens for Domino’s, and these mobile pizza stores are powered by Enqiuest diesel generators. Bella Manufacturing has also partnered with the AITC as a key part of their strategic talent pipeline.

Andrew Blair, CEO of Bella Manufacturing, shared of his excitement to bring real-world insights into this initiative. “When students witness how we build mobile solutions for service brands like Domino’s they see manufacturing at its most dynamic,” said Andrew.

“Our partnership with the AITC has been critical in our ability to deliver the Domino’s program, and continues to support us in taking on larger bodies of work.”

Don Pulver, Founder of Eniquest, who manufacture diesel generators for defence and commercial applications believes that “Our role in this partnership aligns with our own values of innovation and adaptability.

“By involving students in real-world projects, we are not only nurturing their growth but also pioneering a new wave of manufacturing excellence,” Don added.

Click here to learn more about opportunities in the manufacturing industry, please register for the Bella Manufacturing and Eniquest event which is being held at the Australian Industry Trade College on Thursday 5 October.