Career Pathways
There isn't one way into manufacturing.
Whether you want to work straight from school, complete a trade apprenticeship, or study engineering — this is your guide to getting started.
Subjects That Will Help
You don't need to have everything figured out yet. These subjects can give you a strong foundation for different manufacturing pathways. They are helpful starting points — not strict requirements.
Hands-on & Trades Pathways
Great for students interested in making, fixing, building and learning practical skills on the job.
Engineering & Technology Pathways
Useful for students interested in design, engineering, automation, robotics, software, product development or advanced manufacturing.
Business, Leadership & Operations Pathways
Helpful for students interested in people, planning, problem-solving, logistics, management or running manufacturing businesses.
Subject requirements vary by school, provider and pathway. Talk to your school careers advisor or Gateway coordinator when planning your subjects.
Gateway Programme
Get real workplace experience while you're still at school.
Gateway gives Year 11–13 students the chance to experience manufacturing firsthand. Spend time with a local employer, build practical skills, gain confidence and work towards NCEA credits — all while staying enrolled at school.
Why choose Gateway?
Real workplace experience
Step inside a real manufacturing environment while you're still at school.
Advanced technology & automation
Discover robotics, CNC, and the modern machines powering NZ industry.
Practical, hands-on skills
Learn by doing — not just reading textbooks or sitting in classrooms.
Gain NCEA credits
Your Gateway placement can count towards your NCEA qualifications.
Explore your future
Gateway is often the first step towards an apprenticeship or full-time role.
What does a placement look like?
Placements are flexible, arranged between your school and a local employer. Students remain enrolled at school throughout.
One day a week
Spend a regular day at your employer while staying enrolled at school.
Block placement
Immerse yourself for a concentrated period — ideal for school holidays.
Customised schedule
Work with your school and employer to find an arrangement that suits you.
Why manufacturing?
Manufacturing today is modern, innovative and full of opportunity.
Common questions
Interested in Gateway?
Talk to your school's Gateway Coordinator or careers advisor about opportunities near you. They can connect you with local manufacturers and help arrange a placement that fits your goals.
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a paid job where you train on the job alongside experienced tradespeople. You earn a wage from day one and finish with a nationally recognised NZQA qualification — no student debt.
Earn from day one
You're employed and paid a wage while you learn — no student debt.
NZQA qualifications
Finish with a nationally recognised New Zealand qualification.
Learn on the job
Work alongside experienced tradespeople in real manufacturing environments.
Career progression
Many manufacturing leaders started as apprentices.
Typical Apprenticeship Trades
Fitter Welder
Join and fabricate metal components using welding and fitting techniques.
Fitter Turner
Machine and assemble precision metal parts using lathes and mills.
Light Fabrication
Cut, form, and assemble sheet metal and light structural components.
Industrial Electrician
Install and maintain electrical systems in manufacturing environments.
CNC Machining
Program and operate computer-controlled machining centres.
Maintenance Engineering
Keep plant and equipment running safely and efficiently.
Safely operate printing equipment and produce high-quality printed products.
Plastics Engineering
Learn how to manufacture high-quality plastic products using sophisticated injection moulding equipment.
Mechanical Engineering
Manufacture, assemble and maintain mechanical products.
Ready to explore apprenticeships?
Talk to AMA or your school careers adviser to find out how to get started.
Technology Pathways
Engineering and Industrial Design graduates shape the future of manufacturing — designing the products, processes, and systems that keep New Zealand competitive. Complete Year 13 and explore a diploma or degree pathway.
Engineering & Design Disciplines
Mechanical Engineering
Design and improve machinery, equipment, and manufacturing systems.
Mechatronics Engineering
Combine mechanical, electrical, and software systems in smart machines.
Materials Engineering
Develop and select materials for manufacturing applications.
Chemical Engineering
Optimise industrial processes involving chemistry and materials.
Software Engineering
Build digital systems that power modern automated manufacturing.
Industrial Design
Design products that are both functional and manufacturable.
How to Get There
NZ Diploma (Level 5–6)
Two-year programmes at ITPs — practical, industry-connected, and faster to employment.
Bachelor's Degree (Level 7)
Three to four years at university — ideal for engineering and design roles.
Graduate Entry
Enter manufacturing through internships or graduate programmes after completing your degree.
Explore technology careers in more depth
See the career identities on the home page for salary ranges, roles, and real maker stories.
Earn As You Learn
AMA's Earn As You Learn programme is a 30-week paid work and study programme for school leavers. You rotate across multiple manufacturers, build practical skills, and earn a New Zealand Certificate in Manufacturing Level 3 qualification.
Paid from week one
You're an employee, not a student. Earn a real wage throughout the programme.
Multiple employers
Rotate across different manufacturers to discover where you fit best.
NZ Certificate Level 3
Graduate with a nationally recognised manufacturing qualification.
Find out everything about the programme
Eligibility, intake dates, how to apply, and employer partners.