QMI and DTET Empower Women Through Hands-On Manufacturing Workshop in Toowoomba
From July 14–17, 2025, QMI and the Department of Training and Employment (DTET) partnered to deliver a transformative three-day workshop in Toowoomba, designed to support women entering or re-entering the workforce. The Adult Women Who Weld and Code pilot program focused on introducing participants to exciting career pathways in the manufacturing sector.
Day 1 – Welding with Confidence at TAFE QLD Toowoomba
The workshop kicked off at TAFE Queensland Toowoomba, where participants geared up for a hands-on introduction to welding. Workforce Australia provided invaluable support, helping to ensure that all participants were equipped with the necessary safety gear—including clothing and steel-capped boots—so they could fully engage in the day's activities. The day began with the use of cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) welding simulators, giving attendees a safe and supportive environment to build their confidence and skills. It concluded with practical welding sessions under the guidance of a TAFE Queensland instructor.
Day 2 – Coding and Robotics at UniSQ
On the second day, the group moved to the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) to explore the fundamentals of block coding and robotics. Attendees had the opportunity to experiment with coding for the first time, sparking curiosity and creativity. The session was further enriched by guest speaker Debra Nawrotsky from RME, who shared insights into real-world opportunities for women in the manufacturing industry.
Day 3 – Introduction to CNC, Wearable Tech and 3D Printing
The final day, also held at UniSQ, allowed participants to dive deeper into coding with an opportunity to leverage the previous day’s learning to explore the basics of CNC coding before transitioning into an interactive workshop on wearable technology. Led by Stephanie Piper from Maker Queen, the session introduced the group to 3D printing and the possibilities of digital fabrication in the UniSQ Makerspace lab.
Throughout the three days, the true power of the workshop was evident—not just in the technical skills developed, but in the confidence it helped unlock. Many participants rediscovered their potential and left inspired to take the next step in their careers. One attendee summed it up best: “I’m going to take this certificate home and frame it and put it up where I can see it. It’s not the end of my journey but it’s the first step and I did it!”.
What began as a hands-on introduction to welding and code became something much more: a reminder of what’s possible when women are given the tools, the encouragement, and the space to grow. The energy in the room was electric—full of curiosity, courage, and connection. For many, it wasn’t just about learning a new skill; it was about reclaiming confidence and imagining new futures. And that’s the kind of change that lasts well beyond the workshop.
