Young Queenslanders value the impact of the manufacturing industry on society, but are reluctant to work in the field they perceive as hard and repetitive.
Recent research by Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) revealed the image crisis the industry faced, as it looks to find thousands of more workers in the coming years.
MSQ Chief Executive Officer Rebecca Andrews said current modelling suggested the Queensland manufacturing industry would need to employ more than 310,000 people by 2040, with manufacturers struggling to attract workers.
Ms Andrews said a lack of awareness, outdated stereotypes, an educational emphasis on higher education pathways, and competition from other industries were factors impacting the pipeline of talent for manufacturing.
“Unfortunately, a career in manufacturing lacks strong appeal to young people. There is a narrow view of jobs, and work is primarily seen as being hard, physically demanding, and repetitive,” she said.
Ms Andrews said while the industry had evolved, perceptions of it hadn’t.
“Our research reveals a fascinating paradox. While young people perceive manufacturing occupations as less attractive compared to other industries, they simultaneously recognise the industry’s positive societal impact and innovative nature.”
She said the insights revealed through the research presented a unique opportunity to enhance the appeal of manufacturing careers.
“By sharing compelling stories of groundbreaking innovations and life-changing products, we can begin to shift perceptions and ignite passion for this dynamic field.”
Ms Andrews said schools played a pivotal role in guiding students’ next steps, however feedback from students suggested that there was often a priority given to higher education pathways.
“We need more celebration of vocational education and training, and more encouragement of these pathways.
“We must provide clearer explanations of how school-to-work transitions unfold in practice, bridging the gap between education and industry.”
Read the full report: Perceptions of Manufacturing Research. Young people, parents and school influencers 2024.
