Conference looks to region’s future

Smart technology applied to fields of mining, horticulture, cool stores, logistics, healthcare

The Smart Technology Futures and Skills conference presented by John Clement and Ross Goudie was a success with numerous excellent presentations.

Leading the digital transformation, Katikati College head of technology Hamish Carr and students were impressive demonstrating their robots at The Hub last Wednesday.

John said the college has won national and international awards and it was great to see.

House of Science is increasingly focused on robots and has a strong background in maths and science to support student learning. OceanaGold sponsored the event and talked on how they apply smart technology to mining and particularly mine safety.

Shane Stuart of Waikato University spoke of the many excellent companies within the region and Oasis Engineering, Eastpack and Action Equipment gave informative presentations in applying smart technology.

The technology is being applied in all fields, mining, horticulture, cool stores, logistics, healthcare and growing exponentially providing new opportunities. The topic of roading came up and new ideas managing capacity were raised.

This conference was 18 months in the making after Ross and John discussed it in 2019. They recognised technology is driving change and that the community needed to build the capacity and capability in the region for the future.

“The message was clear — you need skilled people, business engagement and an environment that is vibrant where people can reach their markets.

“Covid showed technology is jumping space, the Katikati College, Toi Ohomai plus neighbouring schools provide a strong educational leg and there is a network of vibrant businesses — so the three legs exist and we now need to take the next steps.”

John and Ross are now looking at how these ideas can be implemented locally and are starting to plan the next conference for next year.