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Schneider '25 Years Young' program launch

Schneider Electric Foundation turns 25, calling for projects around the world to apply for support

To mark the 25th anniversary of its foundation, Schneider Electric a leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, is launching a global campaign to celebrate both this key milestone and the next generation of young leaders committed to building a fairer, low-carbon-emissions society. Throughout 2024, the foundation is celebrating the world’s youth by raising awareness of their social and environmental impact and mobilising support from its employees. The high point of these celebrations is the ‘Youth Innovation For A Sustainable Future’ campaign, with a call for projects to be rewarded with funding. The campaign culminates in a €50,000 global prize awarded to the winning project during the COP29 climate summit in Bakou, Azerbaïdjan. Leading up to the global highpoint, each of five continents, including Australia and New Zealand in Asia Pacific, will also award five winning projects each with funding. All 25 winners will be eligible for the global €50,000 prize. The winning project for Asia Pacific will receive €30,000. Second prize is €20,000, third and fourth place will receive €10,000 each, and the final winning project will receive €5,000. Entries are open to young people aged 15-30 years old until 22 July and winners will be announced on 26 August 2024. The SE Foundation’s joint campaign with Ashoka is named ‘Youth Leading the Just Transition’ and is aimed at selecting the most innovative and impactful 25 youth projects across the world in the field of professional engagement as well as just transition. The joint campaign with Ashoka’s program Changemaker Companies will select 25 of the most impactful and innovative youth projects. The five continents include Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. In addition to jury selection, projects have an opportunity to be rewarded with €2,000 as a local audience favourite of Schneider employees. […]

Transferable skills the key to unlocking productivity benefits

-David O’Connor, Commercial Manager, The Learning Wave Having had the opportunity to attend a number of industry conferences over the past few weeks and network with a variety of industry players, I can’t help but reflect on the role training plays in the Manufacturing sector. I find myself questioning whether there is a reset needed in order for the industry to see the desired value and outcomes from the training investment. Traditionally, the Manufacturing sector believed that ‘qualifications’ are the currency when it comes to training staff, and while there is a place for qualifications, we need to challenge ourselves on whether we are seeing the outcomes deemed so essential in the current environment through this means of training. The general feeling amongst the industry at the moment is that there is a need to lift productivity, create a more dynamic workforce and work on the softer skills which ultimately create a more engaged and efficient organisation. Unfortunately it’s commonly agreed that the current qualification based training is not hitting the mark. With increasing commentary about the need for NZ Manufacturers to invest and adapt to smart technology it has been encouraging to hear the conversation evolve into the importance of investing and developing in smart human capital as well. We need to start talking about how we create smart people, and in doing so create a NZ wide training approach that prioritises skills development and transferable skills , creating a team who are fully engaged and adequately equipped to meet the evolving demands of today’s work. Focussing on transferable skills in critical areas like leadership and problem solving, rather than task based, role specific skills is the step change the industry needs. Not only will this result in positive productivity and engagement benefits, but will no doubt improve employee […]

The Scope 3 ripple effect

From June issue, NZ Manufacturer magazine. -Insa Errey In the ever-evolving landscape of regulations, New Zealand manufactures find themselves connected to the regulatory frameworks of key trading partners such as the European Union (EU). The EU has positioned itself as a global leader in climate action, with ambitious targets set under the European Green Deal and the European Climate Law. As part of its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the EU has implemented regulations on Scope 3 emissions reporting through directives such as the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD) and the EU Taxonomy Regulation. Understanding the impacts of Scope 3 regulations in these markets is crucial for New Zealand manufacturing. Let’s delve into how regulations in the EU can shape the strategies and operations of New Zealand manufacturers. First what is Scope 3? Scope 3 emissions refer to indirect greenhouse gas emissions that occur in the value chain of a company, including both upstream and downstream activities. These emissions often result from activities such as the production of purchased goods and services, transportation and distribution, and waste disposal. For any EU customer this may just be your manufacturing sites Scope 1 or 2 emissions. Meaning the emissions your site emits from use of direct combustion (scope 1) or indirect emissions on site from purchased electricity (scope 2). What does this mean for NZ manufacturers? Market Access and compliance pressure to adhere to these standards is required for exporting to the EU which governs Scope 3 emissions disclosure and reduction. Failure to meet these requirements can result in barriers to market entry. In a global market increasingly, prioritising emissions reduction is becoming an advantage, as exporters can face competition from countries with lower carbon footprints. Failure to manage or measure emissions can put NZ manufacturers at a competitive disadvantage and could […]

Charitable trust urgently seeks business sponsors to sustain crucial science education in Hutt Valley

A charitable trust dedicated to improving science learning in the classroom for thousands of primary aged students in the Hutt Valley is launching an urgent appeal for business sponsors so it can continue to operate in the region. The House of Science’s Hutt Valley branch ‘Hutt Science’ is facing a critical funding challenge with the impending cessation of generous financial support from Hutt City Council and Upper Hutt Council. For the past nine years, Hutt Science has been dedicated to improving science learning in classrooms across the Hutt Valley by providing innovative and comprehensive curriculum-based science resource kits. These kits, distributed to 67 schools and 15,000 students in the region, have been instrumental in boosting resources and increasing teachers’ confidence in delivering engaging science lessons. Established in 2014, the House of Science concept was born out of the dire need revealed by an ERO report indicating that over 70% of New Zealand schools lacked an effective science program. Since its inception, founder and CEO Chris Duggan and her team have been empowering teachers to deliver captivating science lessons, ensuring that all children have access to quality science education. Chris Duggan emphasises the pivotal role of House of Science in primary school science education, stating, “Most primary teachers in New Zealand lack the expertise and confidence to teach science. The House of Science resource library has filled a gaping hole in the country’s education system and is making serious inroads in alleviating the issues above.” A 2023 House of Science survey of 350 teachers nationwide found 95% of teachers have increased their understanding of science thanks to House of Science and 97% of teachers reported most or all students are engaged as a result of using the science kits. “Our kits work because they are easy for teachers to use. It […]

EMA appoints John Fraser-Mackenzie as new Chief Executive

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) has appointed John Fraser-Mackenzie as its new Chief Executive. EMA Board spokesperson David Welsh says the Board is delighted to have appointed someone of Fraser-Mackenzie’s calibre. “John brings significant senior leadership and commercial acumen to the EMA and has the experience we need as we continue to update our systems, processes and services to best support our members,” says Welsh. Fraser-Mackenzie has previously been Chief Financial Officer and Interim Chief Executive at Metro Performance Glass, Executive Director at Pacific Harvest Limited, Finance Director at Goodman Fielder, and Head of Finance Eastern Europe at HJ Heinz. During his time at Metro Performance Glass, Fraser-Mackenzie refocussed the business and oversaw an increase in revenue, implemented a new procurement structure and led strategic finance, investor relations and governance through a period of significant business growth. Fraser-Mackenzie says he is excited to have been appointed as the EMA’s new Chief Executive and is looking forward to taking up the role. “The EMA is New Zealand’s largest business association and has a long and proud history supporting businesses in the upper North Island,” says Fraser-Mackenzie. “It’s an honour to have been appointed the new Chief Executive and I am looking forward to getting started and helping build on the work done to date and strongly position the EMA to support and deliver the services businesses need.” Fraser-Mackenzie, who starts the role on 10 June, replaces Brett O’Riley, who is standing down after five and a half years as EMA Chief Executive. Welsh thanked O’Riley for his commitment and service to the EMA. “Brett successfully led the EMA through a period of significant change,” says Welsh. “The past five years have been some of the most challenging the Association has experienced, with a pandemic followed by a major economic downturn. […]

Mulcahy Engineering and Epicor comment on EMEX 2024

How did you find EMEX 2024? Kayne Mulcahy, Managing Director, Mulcahy Engineering Graeme Evans, Regional Vice President (ANZ), Epicor Kayne Mulcahy, Managing Director, Mulcahy Engineering: This was our ninth time exhibiting at EMEX, with our first being back in 2007. It is always great to reconnect with existing and potentially new customers, suppliers and business partners directly. Having the opportunity to share knowledge and experiences with industry peers is also an invaluable outcome of the show. Graeme Evans, Regional Vice President (ANZ), Epicor: We support manufacturers across Australasia to optimise their end-to-end operations through enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions that deliver real-time intelligence. EMEX 2024 was a terrific opportunity for us and a wide variety of individuals and organisations to collaborate around the themes of engineering, manufacturing technology and electronics. As the largest trade show of its kind in New Zealand, it is integral for cultivating relationships and fostering a culture of innovation and growth, driving the entire sector forward. Was the energy positive, potential for sales? Mulcahy: There was a really positive energy amongst both exhibitors and attendees at this years show, which is pleasing considering the current economic conditions faced by many. A real sense that businesses are feeling that we may be past the bottom of the cycle and are looking forward to the climb back up to a more favourable trading environment. Evans: EMEX has now been in operation for more than 40 years – an incredible milestone. There were more than 200 exhibitors and an estimated 5,000 buyers in attendance. Naturally, there is always potential to drive sales at EMEX, but Epicor’s priority for the three-day event was to meet with our existing customers and establish new relationships with organisations that we can empower in the short and long term. How are you finding present […]

The Budget: More work to do

• A weaker economic backdrop has translated into a softer fiscal outlook, with a delay in the return to OBEGAL surpluses until 2027/28 and a higher profile for Crown debt. • Budget 2024 contained a fiscal policy pivot towards tax relief that was balanced by cutbacks in operational spending. The tax cut package was only modestly scaled back from earlier proposals. • Fiscal policy settings do not appear to be as contractionary and front loaded as in the December 2023 update. This will not be greeted fondly by the RBNZ, which is still battling to restrain domestically-generated inflation pressure. As was widely expected the Budget showed that the worsening economic outlook has delivered a fiscal hit. The return to an OBEGAL (Operating Balance before Gains and Losses) surplus will still be earmarked but not until 2027/28. Net core Crown debt is unlikely to fall below 40% of GDP by then. Gross government bond issuance over the 2024/28 period is expected to be $12bn higher than projected in the December 2023 Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update (HYEFU). Budget 2024 contained a fiscal policy pivot towards tax relief that was balanced by cutbacks in operational spending. The scale of the tax cuts was trimmed, but only modestly so. Moreover, the timing of the income tax cut package was only delayed by a month. The introduction of a tax cut package before spending cuts are instigated would not be helpful for the RBNZ which is desperately trying to rein in domestically-generated inflationary pressures. Moreover, the profile of the fiscal impulse suggests that fiscal policy was not as contractionary as the 2023 HYEFU, with the fiscal tightening occurring earlier. This will not be greeted fondly by the RBNZ. The risk is that OCR cuts we expect for early 2025 get pushed further […]

Harm reduction to take centre stage at EMEX 2024

From May issue, NZ Manufacturer magazine The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says it will be using its presence at EMEX 2024 this month to promote the urgent need for manufacturers to work together to help improve the sector’s health and safety record. EMA Head of Advanced Manufacturing Jane Finlayson says that the manufacturing sector has one of the country’s highest rates of workplace injury and there has not been the improvement in workplace harm that has been seen in other sectors such as construction and primary industries. “Simply put, too many manufacturing workers are being harmed at work. In fact, you are twice as likely to be injured working in a manufacturing environment in New Zealand than you are in Australia, and the economic and social cost is too high,” says Jane. “Every year there are about 30,000 injuries in the manufacturing sector and ACC pays out $50 million for acute injuries resulting in more than 240,000 lost workdays. But it’s not just about the economic costs. Each injury can have an impact on an individual, a family, and a community, “It also has a huge business impact, affecting productivity and morale. No one wants to see an employee, or a colleague, injured or seriously hurt at work. “That is why we’ve launched Project Whakahaumaru with support from ACC. This project aims to bring the sector together to develop a five-year action plan to reduce harm and improve the health, safety, and wellness of everyone working in manufacturing. Jane says the team are looking forward to engaging with manufacturers at EMEX to hear their ideas and encourage them to get involved in the project and share their experiences. “We don’t pretend to have the answers. The reasons for the high rates of harm in manufacturing are complex and, to […]

Improving workplace literacy skills: A key to unlocking staff potential and lifting productivity

From May issue, NZ Manufacturer magazine www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz -David O’Connor, Commercial Manager, The Learning Wave There is no shortage of evidence – both research-based and practical examples – that productivity continues to be one of the main challenges to the long-term growth and success of the Manufacturing sector here in New Zealand. Coupling this challenge with an aging workforce, and barriers to attracting new skilled labour means that many businesses have significant skills, capability, and capacity issues that are holding them back, or restricting their ability to adapt and respond to market opportunities. One of the constants that we hear from our clients is about how to address the underlying literacy challenges in both their frontline staff and supervisors. While many businesses might have ‘done’ literacy training (often in small numbers) in the past, they often have not seen the benefits of this training in terms of changes to the shop floor or seen any flow-on effect to productivity. Workplace literacy is more than just someone’s ability with basic reading and writing skills. Today’s workplace demands mean that workplace literacy needs to include comprehension of complex work instructions, critical thinking and problem-solving, strong verbal and written communication skills, numerical and analytical skills, and the growing need for everyone to have to digital mindset and skills to work in our ever-growing digitally rich workplaces. Misinterpretation of instructions, inability to comprehend safety guidelines, or errors in recording data can lead to costly delays and rework. Imagine a scenario where a worker misreads a critical measurement or mishandles a machine due to a misunderstanding of operating procedures. The repercussions extend beyond mere inconvenience; they affect the bottom line. According to the 2016 Survey of Adult Skills, around one in five people in the New Zealand Workforce have very low literacy skills and a further […]

Embracing the Future: How Digital Twin Technology Can Accelerate Manufacturing Operations

From May issue, NZ Manufacturer magazine www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz -Adam Sarman, Senior Partner, Dsifer In an industry in which flexibility, agility and innovation are no longer competitive advantages, but tickets to the game, the ability to make responsive, agile decisions, predict future requirements and innovate without impacting operations are critical. In this dynamic industry context, digital twin technology has emerged as an important but underutilised technology. Digital twins are software models that represent the attributes and operating behaviour of physical assets, product designs and/or processes. They support better decision making by simulating how these applications behave given certain inputs. A digital twin’s ability to enable progressive learning and capture tacit knowledge provides a key, differentiating benefit: it stores and structures information in a way engineers and operators can understand. Digital twins, are reshaping how products are designed, manufactured, and optimised across all process and design-drive industries. Three key applications of digital twin technologies are process optimisation through simulation, product design simulation, factory/operation design and predictive maintenance. Process Optimisation: Enhancing Efficiency and Accuracy Process simulation lies at the heart of manufacturing and supply-chain optimisation, and digital twins provide an unparalleled platform for achieving this. By creating virtual replicas of production processes, manufacturers can simulate and analyse operations in real-time, enabling them to identify bottlenecks, optimise workflows, and improve efficiency. For instance, in automotive manufacturing, digital twins are used to simulate assembly lines, allowing manufacturers to test different layouts and production scenarios before implementation. Moreover, by integrating IoT sensors and data analytics, manufacturers can collect real-time data from equipment and processes, feeding it into the digital twin for predictive maintenance and continuous improvement. Product Design: Accelerating Innovation and Iteration Digital twins play a crucial role in product design by enabling engineers to create virtual prototypes and simulate their performance under various conditions. This […]

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