PROJECT APN013

Developing curated education programs to boost Australia’s composite manufacturing competitiveness

Australian composites manufacturing is undergoing significant transformation, driven by advancements in materials, technologies, and national priorities reflected in recently introduced policies to enhance sovereign capabilities. A skilled and educated workforce is therefore critical to long-term competitiveness of the industry. Yet, understanding the education and training gaps and opportunities within this sector remains unclear.

In its first Education and Training project, ACM CRC, in collaboration with Partners RMIT University and Composites Australia, is working to identify the current composites manufacturing skills and capability gaps and opportunities for uplift, to develop and deliver curated educational programs to address them.

The project will leverage and extend upon preliminary research conducted by Composites Australia, who have previously investigated skill deficiencies in the composites industry. This whole-of-industry initiative will prioritise understanding the needs of CRC Industry partners while aligning with broader workforce needs, perceptions and advancements, and subsequent integration of the wider industry.

University partners will also benefit, through being able to align their educational programs with industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the workforce. The data will help inform the design and enhancement of curricula, focusing on developing the skills most in demand by the composites industry. Universities can also use the findings to foster stronger collaboration with industry partners, facilitating knowledge exchange and innovation, and playing a pivotal role in shaping workforce readiness and driving continuous professional development – ultimately supporting the long-term growth and competitiveness of the composites industry in Australia.

ACM CRC Research Programs

• RP1 - Composite Materials
• RP2 - Manufacturing Processes
• RP3 - Simulation and Performance Prediction
• RP4 - Design and Integration
  

Project Partners

• RMIT University
• Composites Australia
  

Project Leaders

• A/Prof. Everson Kandare, RMIT
• Kerryn Caulfield, Composites Australia

Year commenced

2024

A highly skilled workforce is anticipated to elevate the level of innovation within composites manufacturing companies, delivering higher productivity and competitiveness through new and improved technology offerings. RMIT’s capabilities, combined with priorities from industry, will help shape the new Education and Training Program. Further, the project will uplift composites manufacturing skills for the existing workforce, while providing support to HDR students of all genders and socio-economic backgrounds, as they prepare for careers in the composites industry.

By addressing identified skills gaps, industry partners can boost competitiveness, drive innovation, and foster a culture of lifelong learning. Furthermore, this project will help guide policy development, influencing government and regulatory bodies to create supportive policies and allocate funding to critical areas, ultimately contributing to economic growth and job creation within the composites manufacturing sector.”