What’s happening?
Toowoomba students will take centre stage at the STEM Advanced Manufacturing Future Skills School Student Showcase on Monday, October 27, from 10AM to 1PM at Toowoomba State High School. The event celebrates local students’ participation in the STEM Advanced Manufacturing Future Skills Program, highlighting their innovation and growing expertise in the manufacturing industry.
Students will share what they’ve learned about advanced manufacturing, local industries, and the real-world challenges they’ve tackled with industry mentors.
Why it matters
This showcase connects education with industry, encouraging young Queenslanders to explore careers in advanced manufacturing. By giving students the tools and opportunities to problem-solve using technology, the program helps develop the future workforce needed to keep regional manufacturing thriving.
Local Impact
The program links Toowoomba schools with local manufacturing hubs, strengthening pathways for students to gain hands-on skills and insights into high-tech industries. Each school received access to 3D printing equipment, design software, and career immersion days, giving students the chance to create, test, and present solutions to real industry problems.
By the Numbers
• Each participating school received a $7,500 package including 3D printers, software licences, and professional learning to strengthen STEM learning.
• Students have access to three years of Makers Empire 3D design software, supporting ongoing creativity and innovation in classrooms.
• The Toowoomba showcase is the first of five statewide events running across Queensland from October 27 to November 14.
Zoom In
Students used Makers Empire, a 3D design and printing platform developed in Adelaide, to complete custom manufacturing challenges. Senior secondary students will also pitch their projects to a ‘shark tank’-style industry panel, presenting their innovative ideas directly to local experts.
Zoom Out
The program is part of the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development Program, delivered by Makers Empire in partnership with Queensland Manufacturing Hubs.
It forms part of Queensland’s broader goal to strengthen its advanced manufacturing sector and prepare students for future technology-driven careers.
What to look for next
As the showcase series continues across Queensland, Toowoomba’s young innovators will inspire others to explore advanced manufacturing pathways and future career opportunities.