Immersive Manufacturing Experience for Regional Educators

Case Study Overview

To help bridge the gap between education and industry, the Queensland Manufacturing Institute (QMI), along with the Gateway to Industry Schools Program for Advanced Manufacturing (GISP AM) and the RDMW Manufacturing Hub, organised a Professional Development (PD) tour for regional educators. Designed for high school STEM teachers, the tour introduced them to cutting-edge manufacturing processes and technologies at four leading companies: Allweld Engineering, Bendpro, CR Mining Solutions, and Global Manufacturing Group (GMG). This experience aimed to equip teachers with insights to inspire students’ interest in manufacturing careers.

Industry Partners and Innovators in Manufacturing

The tour highlighted the diverse strengths of four Queensland manufacturing leaders. Allweld Engineering is known for its meticulous engineering solutions in fabrication and welding, demonstrating the importance of precision in every project. Bendpro showcased the art and science of precision tube bending, emphasising how advanced mathematical and technical skills are applied in specialised manufacturing.

At CR Mining Solutions, teachers observed the rigorous demands of creating high-performance, durable equipment for heavy-duty mining applications. The tour showed how engineering innovations support the resilience needed in resource-driven industries. Finally, Global Manufacturing Group (GMG) provided a broad view of scalable production for sectors from defence to automotive, highlighting the adaptability and versatility essential for modern manufacturing.

Without industry participation and their gracious support, these teacher professional development tours would not be possible.

Bridging Industry and Education for Student Success

Teacher professional development tours like these organised by QMI are essential for creating direct links between industry advancements and classroom learning. When educators experience cutting-edge manufacturing processes firsthand, they return equipped with fresh insights, stories, and examples that make STEM subjects come alive for their students. This connection between industry and education not only strengthens teachers' knowledge but also makes their teaching more relevant, inspiring, and impactful. By showing students how STEM skills translate to real-world careers, these experiences help build a pipeline of future engineers, technicians, and innovators ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s industries. 

With initiatives like this, QMI continues to strengthen the relationship between schools and industry via the GISP AM, ensuring that educators are well-prepared to guide students towards exciting, future-focused career paths in manufacturing.