Partnerships

Tips for Connecting with Industry

We all know, the closer connections to industry our schools and students have, the better opportunities for our students to gain valuable world of work STEAM connections.  

The Advanced Manufacturing Gateway Schools Program (GISP AM) is a niche program providing industry insights, evidence and connections to a network of 37 schools across Queensland, some in regional and remote areas. 

Here are our Program Manager’s top 3 tips for schools and teacher to connect with industry to develop collaborative partnerships.

Remember, manufacturing in Australia is currently undergoing growth and transition due to industry 4.0.  Don't be shy, we all need each other. We just have to find the right way for you to connect, collaborate and communicate. 

Tip 1:

Use the provided GISP AM industry partnership form and notify the Program Manager once you have a new industry partner onboard. This will help ensure the full potential of the partnerships are realised for the entire school and network.  

All industry partners receive official recognition from the Queensland Manufacturing Institute which allows them to further their business. 

This is the perfect collaboration where everyone wins. It provides various ways to connect for industry and yourself understanding your time and resources are limited and valuable. 

Tip 2:

Check if you have school parents from manufacturing and engineering backgrounds attached to your school community. 

Include our industry partnerships callout into your school newsletter and get them to engage in the network.

Remember, if it's a large manufacturer we can use the GISP to develop a partnership that benefits the entire network e.g. filming factory STEAM connections, resource development etc.  

Tip 3:

Connect with local government agencies of Department of Small Business and Training (DESBT) and Department of Manufacturing (DRDM). Contacts are available here if you haven't already been introduced through your Program Manager.

Get added to their communications list to receive information and opportunities to connect. i.e. DRDM technology in manufacturing workshops for industry which also allows our GISP teachers to connect.  

DRDM also have 3 official Advanced Manufacturing Hubs for industry in Cairns, Townsville and Rockhampton. Network with industry participating in these government provided activities. Also, ask them to send out the industry partnership call-out locally. 

Connect to your local council and ask them to call out to the local industry for you. DESBT officers are involved in small business which 95% of manufacturers are, so be sure and connect with them also. 

Teacher Buddy

The following businesses have offered to team up with teachers as part of our ‘Teacher Buddy Program’. This is your opportunity to discuss classroom teaching and real-world industry application.

Business Visit

The following businesses have offered to ‘open their doors’ either virtually or in-person to provide teachers and students with tours of their facility and have industry discussions.