After a productive inaugural Industry Round Table gathering held in Wellington, we extend our appreciation to all participants for their valuable engagement. Their contributions have added tremendous value to our discussions, infusing us with a sense of optimism and momentum that we’re eager to carry forward. With this in mind, here are some of the key takeaways and next steps from the session as we navigate the path ahead.

• Defining Our Craft:

  We agreed that it’s important to create a clear and compelling narrative around what machining is. This will help market our industry to school leavers and other potential apprentices as a fulfilling career choice. We discussed the idea of creating a series of videos that would spotlight apprentices, tradesmen and business owners – providing a real-world look into the machining industry. This could feature stories such as those who have transitioned from shop floor to business owner over the course of their career.

• Utilising Untapped Resources: We identified a unique opportunity to tap into the workforce potential within minimum-security prisons. This initiative could be an innovative way to channel individuals toward a meaningful trade career path.
• Supporting Skill Development: Supporting organisations such as MTO allows us to contribute to the enhancement of the Apprenticeship syllabus, thereby nurturing a highly skilled workforce well into the future.

• Increasing Awareness at Grassroots Level:

  We agreed that it’s important to market the machining industry to schools and inspire machinists of the future. Expanding on what MTO is already doing at this level, we agreed that creating videos in the style mentioned above on different companies will be a powerful asset to show in schools and inspire students.

• More Support Needed with Robotics: We discussed that robots are being purchased with not enough follow-up support provided.
• Addressing Servicing Shortages: It was highlighted that the industry is currently facing a challenge with not having enough people available to provide machine maintenance and support.
• Diversity and Inclusion: We discussed ways to encourage greater female participation in our industry and will explore strategies to attract and support women interested in a career in machining.

• Planning Marketing Approach:

  Our team will immediately start on creating a marketing plan which will include a series of videos (as detailed above). We will then be in touch to schedule interviews with some of you and your employees.

• MTO: Andy from MTO will be reaching out to you with updates from his perspective and explore opportunities for your involvement with MTO.
• Upcoming Round Table: Mark your calendars for the next Wellington Round Table, tentatively scheduled for November. We’re eager to delve deeper into the topics we’ve outlined and follow-up on how we’ve progressed.