Event: Sunshine Coast Manufacturing Skills Forum
Location: UniSC Auditorium – Innovation Centre
When: Thursday February 12 from 7:30am to 9:30am
Overview
Join industry leaders, education providers and manufacturers for a practical and forward-focused discussion on the skills our manufacturing sector needs now and into the future.
Hosted by the Sunshine Coast Manufacturing Hub and Sunshine Coast Regional Jobs Committee, this forum will explore real opportunities and projects addressing critical skills gaps, share education and industry-led solutions, and give you the opportunity to contribute your insights during an interactive roundtable.
Speakers: 7:45am – 8:00am
Megan Lilly – Deputy Commissioner, Jobs and Skills Australia. Megan will be joining us virtually to set the scene for the session and provide key insights into the recently released Jobs and Skills Report and an overview of the National Skills Taxonomy.
Dr Melissa Innes – Lecturer in Management & Human Resource Management, UniSC. Melissa will present a keynote focussing on generational shifts, workforce well-being, and skills transformation needed to thrive in the era of AI and Industry 4.0. The presentation will highlight how manufacturers can attract younger talent, support employee well-being, and upskill workers to remain competitive.
Panellists: 8:05am – 8:20am
Sue Sheppard –Emerging Industry Development Manager, TAFE Queensland.
Melitta McDonald – Chief People Officer, The Country Chef Bakery Co.
Tim Kelly – Director Manufacturing Excellence Forum.
Dr Melissa Innes – Lecturer in Management & Human Resource Management, UniSC.
Skills Forum: 8:20 – 9.20am
During this time we will have some activities at each table to learn about your workforce skills gaps, and to drive concepts and possible solutions in four key focus areas:
- Critical Skills
- Participation Barriers
- New skills & pathways needed
- 10 years ahead: what roles will grow? what roles will be redundant?
Date: 12th February, 2026
Time: 7.30am to 9.30am
Location: Innovation Centre – University of Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs.
Free parking and a light breakfast provided
Register: Sunshine Coast Manufacturing Skills Forum Tickets, Thu, Feb 12, 2026 at 7:30 AM | Eventbrite
