Local collaboration helps build careers for Wintec students in manufacturing

A collaborative pilot programme between Wintec and top Waikato manufacturers has helped address workforce demand, unlocking career pathways for 17 high school leavers.

Ākonga and programme stakeholders at the course completion ceremony at APL, Cambridge

Launched in the Waikato earlier this year, the 30-week programme successfully bridged classroom learning and practical, paid work experience, giving ākonga (students) valuable on-the-job exposure and a recognised qualification.

Ākonga spent two days each week at Wintec’s Rotokauri Campus and three days working alongside some of the region’s most advanced manufacturers, earning real wages while they learned.

The programme aims to build a pipeline of future-ready talent and support local employers facing ongoing skills shortages.

The manufacturing sector contributes significantly to the national economy, representing eight per cent of GDP, and underpinning a large portion of New Zealand’s export base.

Of the 17 students who participated in the pilot, nine have already transitioned into full-time roles with their host businesses, with a further two already employed within one of the businesses, and able to use the programme to upskill.

Dr Shelley Wilson, Wintec Executive Director Teaching and Learning

Dr Shelley Wilson, Wintec Executive Director Teaching and Learning, has been involved with the initiative since its inception.

“Wintec was approached by a group of leading Waikato Manufacturers in July 2023 to join in conversations around developing a programme to increase the number of students going into manufacturing,” said Shelley.

“It was a truly collaborative approach to solving multiple problems: increasing the awareness of what manufacturing is and can be as a career opportunity, whilst at the same time acknowledging that many prospective students were not able to afford to study full-time without earning an income.”

“The group realised that if they paid these ākonga in exchange for their placement labour, they could teach at the same time as a way to give back.”

Shelley joined programme stakeholders and whānau in congratulating ākonga at a special course completion ceremony hosted at APL in Cambridge last week.

“Seeing our students succeed is always the highlight of our year, and I look forward to seeing you again next year at our graduation ceremony.”

“We wish you every success in the future. There are so many possibilities out there, and I hope you take all opportunities that are presented to you.”

Hon Chris Penk, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing, attended the event and presented certificates to the students.

“This has been a gamechanger for attracting and developing talent in the manufacturing sector,” he said, noting the programme’s high completion rates and the strong interest from employers continuing with the initiative.

Hon Chris Penk, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing

Following the programme’s success in the Waikato, the course is now being expanded to new regions, with the Minister announcing plans to roll it out to the Hutt Valley and Canterbury next year, and Auckland in 2027.

Wintec continues to work closely with industry and workforce partners, including Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa, Hanga-Aro-Rau Workforce Development Council, Competenz, the Waikato Engineering Careers Association and local manufacturers, to help strengthen pathways into manufacturing careers and support regional economic growth.