56 | Buckley Systems Ltd T T Karen Phelps Helping shape the future of NZ’s workforce Hanga-Aro-Rau plays a crucial role in identifying industry needs and developing appropriate training programmes. MANUFACTURING Buckley Systems Limited is not just manufacturing world-class precision electromagnets; it’s helping shape the future of New Zealand’s workforce. The company, founded by Bill Buckley in 1978, is a strong supporter of apprenticeship programmes, working closely with HangaAro-Rau, the Manufacturing, Engineering and Logistics Workforce Development Council, to help address the critical skills shortage in the manufacturing sector. “We have the largest engineering apprenticeship programme in New Zealand. It covers fabrication, CNC machining and general manufacturing. Bill has been a stalwart sponsor of apprenticeships in New Zealand since day one, and he knows how essential this is to drive the future of the industry in New Zealand,” says Dion Orbell, Buckley Systems Chief People Officer and one of the co chairs for the manufacturing work develop council working with Hanga-Aro-Rau. This commitment to training the next generation of skilled workers is not just altruism; it’s a strategic necessity. “The semi conductor industry is booming due to the growth of devices and AI technology,” Dion says. “It’s also a key part in decarbonisation. For example there are 4000 chips in a wind turbine, 6000 in a solar panel, 14,000 in an EV vehicle. “The Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act in America is intended to lure microchip manufacturing back to the United States after several decades of individual companies offshoring the technology and is also a key driver for growth for us. Our magnets go in the ion implanters that help enable the manufacture of chips and we have a large share in this market worldwide. “Our business apprenticeships create a strong people pipeline for us and also help us deal with our aging workforce. Finding qualified senior tradespeople is becoming harder as they retire and leave. “With the growth that we have had, which is unprecedented, we need that pipeline of people, and we would struggle without that apprenticeship programme.” The partnership with Hanga-Aro-Rau has been instrumental in this endeavour. As one of the six Workforce Development Councils established by the government, Hanga-Aro-Rau plays a crucial role in identifying industry needs and developing appropriate training programmes. Dion sees this collaboration as an important link for business voice back into government agencies to establish that connection and collaboration. He says this synergy between industry and education is vital for New Zealand’s economic future. With the government’s ambitious goal to double exports by 2030, which would involve creating 157,000 new jobs, the role of apprenticeships becomes even more critical. “If the government wishes to hit these numbers in the future, they need to support the total apprenticeship, not just the initial years.” Buckley Systems approach to apprenticeships is comprehensive. The company currently employs an average of twenty-five apprentices or pre-apprentices in training. Their programme includes a six-month paid internship where potential apprentices work in different departments to understand the entire manufacturing process and find their niche. Dion says this hands-on experience is invaluable in developing well-rounded apprentices that understand the intricacies of Buckley Systems. The success of this programme is evident in the company’s workforce. Many of Buckley Systems management team started as apprentices, bringing a wealth of practical experience to their senior roles. Proud to be a key machining partner for Buckley Systems Ltd Pakuranga Engineering Ltd is a proud supplier to Buckley Systems Ltd and supports investment in training tomorrows engineers 09-273 8001 sales@techniturn.co.nz www.techniturn.co.nz
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