2025 National Manufacturing Technology Skills Summit

2025 National Manufacturing Technology Skills Summit

Thursday 21 August 2025 – National Press Club, Canberra, ACT

Why is this Summit important?

Australia’s manufacturing sector is confronting a growing and urgent shortage of skilled Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Operators. With over 1,000 roles currently unfilled and more than 3,000 new roles projected in the next two years.

This highly focused, in-person National Manufacturing Technology Skills Summit will bring together 50 plus leaders from manufacturing, education, industry associations and government to develop a targeted, collective action plan to address this critical workforce need.

The Goal

To co-design a practical and time-bound strategy that addresses the CNC Operator shortage—while establishing a replicable model for tackling broader skills gaps in the future. The day will conclude in a written, jointly endorsed action plan to guide next steps.

What makes this Summit different?

This summit differs from others with its specificity to a defined skill set and its collaborative approach. By developing a joint and specific strategy and work plan, we can achieve a ‘line of sight’ to our collective impact across the sector.

AGENDA – At a Glance

Welcome & Opening

• Host introduction and formal opening
• Address by a senior government official (TBC)

Setting the Scene

• Focus on CNC Operators: Why this skill set is critical; impact on the sector. Speakers from the manufacturing perspective
• Education & Training: Current pathways and challenges; input from course providers Speakers who provide courses.

Workshop 1: What does success look like?

• What does success look like?
• Define targets and outcomes

Workshop 2: Why are we short?

• Understanding barriers
• Are current training options suitable and available?

Workshop 3: Recruit and Retain

• Ideas and initiatives to improve attraction
• Overcoming barriers

Attendance and Registration:

This event is free to attend, but registration is strictly required. Please note that attendees are responsible for their own travel costs.

The event will be catered, please share any dietary accommodation needs when registering to attend.

For additional information or to express your interest in attending, please contact Dea Stavar at dstavar@amtil.com.au.