Darling Downs, Queensland – July 31st 2025 – More than 150 high school students from the Darling Downs region are preparing to take flight into the world of aerospace manufacturing, thanks to a groundbreaking careers event hosted by Boeing Defence Australia in partnership with Aviation Australia and Manufacturing Skills Queensland.
Launchpad 2027, held on Wednesday, 30 July 2025, at St Mary’s College in Toowoomba, marked a major milestone in connecting regional Queensland students with cutting-edge opportunities in aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
The event targeted Grade 9 to Grade 11 students from eight schools participating in the Queensland Government’s Gateway to Industry Schools Program. Students were given unprecedented access to industry professionals, immersive workshops, and interactive displays that showcased the future of aerospace technology.
Opening Doors to High-Flying Futures
Queensland’s Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, praised the initiative, saying:
“The Gateway to Industry Schools Program is transforming how we prepare young Queenslanders for high-skill – and high-flying – careers in priority sectors, including the growing aerospace industry.”
She highlighted the power of collaboration between Boeing and local schools in forging meaningful connections between classrooms and industry.
Boeing’s Vision for Darling Downs
Paul Watson, Director of MQ-28 Production System at Boeing, shared exciting news about the region’s future:
“The Darling Downs region is a growth region for Boeing, with up to 100 jobs expected over the next decade once the Boeing MQ-28 final assembly facility is opened.”
This signals a strong commitment to building a skilled local workforce and creating long-term career opportunities in aerospace manufacturing.
Glenn Ryan AM, Chief Executive of Aviation Australia, emphasized the importance of STEM education:
“From composite technicians and robotics specialists to quality engineers and design experts, we’re looking for talented individuals who can help shape the future of aerospace.”
Students and teachers saw firsthand how classroom learning could translate into exciting, well-paid careers.
Building Queensland’s Sovereign Capability
Rebecca Andrews, Chief Executive of Manufacturing Skills Queensland, reinforced the strategic importance of the event:
“Queensland is rapidly becoming an aerospace and defence manufacturing powerhouse, but we can only maintain this momentum with a skilled local workforce.”
By connecting students directly with industry leaders, the event helped address critical skills gaps and build Queensland’s competitive edge.
What Students Experienced
Throughout the day, students:
Launchpad 2027 is part of the Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools Program (hosted by Aviation Australia) and the Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools Program (hosted by Manufacturing Skills Queensland). These programs are Queensland Government initiatives designed to build strong partnerships between schools and industry.
Media Contacts:
For post-event photography and more information: