Engineering education fund targets skills shortage

From the Momentum Waikato Annual Report 2024 - see full report in PDF.

Creating a long-term solution to the skills shortage in the engineering industry is the aim of the Waikato Engineering Education Fund. Launched by the Waikato Engineering Careers Association (WECA) on its 20th Anniversary in November 2023, it supports innovation, diversity and equity in the industry.

Hanga-Aro-Rau, the national Workforce Development Council for Manufacturing Engineering and Logistics, welcomed the move, as the skills gap is set to grow to 40,000 workers by 2028. Chief Executive Phil Alexander-Crawford said the new Fund is a direct regional response to the shortage.

“This approach is hugely encouraging for our sector as Aotearoa faces critical skills shortage. Women are a major source of untapped talent and are a big part of the solution and we are also fortunate to have a growing Māori and Pacific communities. They are increasingly essential for creating an innovative and skilled workforce,” said Phil.

WECA General Manager Mary Jensen said it was founded in 2003 to combat disconnection between the tertiary education system and employers.

“WECA has been able to bring our sector to life for young people. It’s paid off – testament to the fact that training and growing your own workforce from the ground up grows strong businesses,” said Mary.

Over the last two decades the WECA team has attended more than 60 Career Expos, spoken to thousands of young people, built websites, facilitated work placements, and lobbied for the industry.

When the Waikato Engineering Education Fund is ready to start grant-making, it will provide income for scholarships for trainees, apprentices and professionals in the Waikato’s engineering trades.

You can donate to the Waikato Engineering Education Fund at momentumwaikato.nz/waikatoengineeringeducation.