Cobots, laser marking, workforce diversity, and CNC training simulators — live from Australian Manufacturing Week 2025 Part 1. 

Recorded live at AMW 2025, Shane speaks with eight manufacturers and innovators showcasing the automation, workforce, and technology trends shaping Australian industry. We hear from: 

- Sam Nothnagel from Automated Solutions Australia on affordable, high-volume machine tending cobots 

- Mark Luft from Trotec Laser on mobile laser marking, cobot integration, and compliance marking 

- Paul Gekas from Bosch BAMS on active force compliance robotics for sanding and polishing applications 

- Latinka Cubitt from Catten Industries (2024 Victorian Female Manufacturer of the Year) on workforce diversity and youth engagement 

- Manny Valenza from Sandvik Coromant on their Manufacturing Wellness framework and toolpath optimisation 

- Samuel Kaladari from Colbotic Automation on cobot welding that enables unskilled operators to produce quality welds 

- Matthew Parsons from PlanIT on the HxGN Machine Trainer — a CNC simulator for safe operator training 

- Greg Hebble from Wheelchairs for Kids Australia on volunteer-powered manufacturing of all-terrain wheelchairs 

Show notes and links for this episode: https://www.manufacturingtech.au/episode/56-australian-manufacturing-week-2025-part-1-tech-talent-transformation/