Job Skills Connect: a fully funded pilot program helping regional manufacturers build a skilled youth pipeline through redesigned entry-level roles, tools, coaching, and placements, addressing industry needs in the Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay.
Job Skills Connect is a fully funded pilot program developed to support regional manufacturers in addressing one of their biggest challenges: building a pipeline of skilled, job-ready young people.
We work with businesses to redesign entry-level roles, match them with innovation-trained youth, and provide the tools, coaching, and placements needed to future-proof their workforce.
Manufacturing is changing — rapidly. Reshoring, decarbonisation and Industry 4.0 are creating demand for new skills. At the same time, many young people in our regions are eager to work but lack access to meaningful pathways.
Job Skills Connect bridges this gap.
We connect industry with youth through work-integrated learning placements that are practical, supported, and designed to deliver value on both sides.
We help you bring in fresh thinking, build future capability, and make workforce change that lasts.
Job Skills Connect is designed for:
This pilot is delivered by Groei Education, in collaboration with local businesses and funded by the Australian Government’s Local Jobs Program.
Groei Education is a Queensland-based education organisation focused on bridging the gap between education and industry. Specialising in future skills, workforce development, and innovative learning design, Groei creates programs that support both young people and businesses in regional communities.
Groei develops evidence-based, hands-on learning programs that equip young people with practical, transferable skills and industry-recognised micro-credentials. At the same time, the organisation partners with businesses to support job redesign, staff development, and workforce planning aligned to emerging industry needs.
Working with local and state government, manufacturing sectors, and education providers, Groei delivers scalable initiatives that make real impact — including Talent Accelerate, Knoei Colab, and now Job Skills Connect.
Groei’s work is grounded in regional collaboration, capability building, and a belief in the potential of young people to shape the future of work.
Learn more at groei.com.au
Explore how Job Skills Connect can benefit your business:
Together, we’re unlocking regional talent and shaping the future of manufacturing.