Bruce started his career as an apprentice mechanic before qualifying as a trade-certified automotive engineer. After co-founding an automatic lubrication systems business and being involved in other commercial enterprises, Bruce is now the State Manager of the Tasmanian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (TACC) – the state’s peak automotive industry association. Bruce is passionate about the automotive industry and about supporting the next generation of apprentices. 

Claudia brings over 10 years of expertise in training and development across owner-operator and contract mining sectors and extensive experience managing Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). She develops, designs, and implements technical succession plans, including apprenticeships and traineeships, to build a sustainable workforce. Through targeted initiatives, Claudia strengthens leadership capabilities and creates a pipeline of future leaders. 

As the Manager of the Mining and Automotive Industry Training Council (MATC) in Western Australia, Claudia drives the MATC's strategic focus. She advocates for the industry and informs policy decisions for the State Training Board and the Department of Training and Workforce Development. 

Jason is the CEO of I-CAR Australia and a recognised leader in collision repair training, workforce capability, and industry standards. He has driven major advancements in national training delivery, strengthened OEM and industry partnerships, and ensured the I-CAR Gold Class program remains Australia’s benchmark for collision repair excellence. With deep expertise in emerging vehicle technologies, structural repair, EVs, ADAS, and advanced materials, Jason brings a practical, future-focused perspective to workforce development. His collaborative approach and strong industry networks enable him to translate complex skills needs into clear, scalable training pathways. As an AUSMASA SWAP representative, Jason will contribute strategic insight, a commitment to quality training outcomes, and a strong focus on preparing the automotive workforce for rapid technological change.

As the General Manager, Apprenticeships for the Motor Trade Association South Australia Northern Territory (MTA SANT), Jodi has extensive knowledge of training and funding arrangements and automotive trades across all areas. Among her many achievements, Jodi played an integral role in the development of South Australia's first dedicated Electric Vehicle Training Centre and qualification, preparing the next generation of automotive workers to support the industry in selling, servicing and repairing the rapidly growing number of electric vehicles on our roads. Additionally, Jodi championed the introduction of three dual trades in South Australia, combining Automotive Electrical with Light Vehicle, Heavy Vehicle and Agricultural Technology. She continues to support the automotive industry with skilled migration initiatives, tailored training solutions and industry engagement in all sectors that support automotive.

Kate has worn many hats during her illustrious career. After joining Cummins as the Southern Region Apprentice Program Manager, when the company launched the in-house Apprentice Program. Two years later, it won the Large Apprentice Employer of the Year award at the Australian Training Awards. Kate now leads the South Pacific Apprentice Program, offering nationally recognised qualifications in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology, Electrical Technology, Automotive Sales, Parts Interpreting.

Kate has worked in the automotive and earthmoving industries for more than two decades, beginning her career as an Automotive Mechanic before progressing into a range of operational, leadership, and management roles. As the National Apprentice Development Manager for Komatsu Australia, she combines deep technical expertise with strong operational insight to design and deliver programs that build future-ready trade talent. Kate is passionate about developing apprentices, strengthening industry capability, and ensuring the next generation of technicians are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving, technology-driven sector.

Lesley has led the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s advocacy agenda for close to a decade, representing the full span of the aftermarket – from Australian automotive manufacturing, through to parts suppliers, retail groups, specialist vehicle modifiers and independent workshops. A defining achievement was securing Australia’s first motor vehicle Right to Repair law, the culmination of a sustained, decade-long campaign by the AAAA to embed fair and open competition in legislation. Lesley sits on a number of key government and industry advisory panels and remains a leading voice for policies that keep Australian automotive manufacturing strong, workshops competitive and consumers informed.

Melissa Mangano is an accomplished people and culture professional with extensive experience in organisational development, training and workforce development, and organisational leadership. As National Employee Relationship Manager at United Forklift and Access Solutions, she leads strategic initiatives that strengthen engagement, retention, and culture across 16 national locations. Previously, as State Manager – Training Services (WA) at Status, she oversaw large-scale employment, recruitment, and accredited training programs across multiple industries and managing an RTO at state level. Melissa holds a Master of Business Administration, and advanced qualifications in accounting and finance. Passionate about empowering people and building strong workplace connections, she is dedicated to creating environments where both employees and organisations thrive. She is also an Industry Mentor with Curtin University and Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management.

Paul has considerable experience working with state and national bodies in training package development. He is the National Skills and Training Coordinator with the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU). Paulhas represented the AMWU on a number of industry reference committees including Manufacturing and Engineering, Aircraft Maintenance, Construction and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing. Paul’s extensive knowledge of issues facing workers and employers across the automotive industry makes him highly regarded by peers.

Throughout her 24-year career as a licenced electrician, Sarah has worked across many industries including mining. Her current role as a National Technical Officer involves representing the Electrical Trades Union (ETU) on Australian Standards and supporting the development and revision of training packages delivered in the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector. Sarah is a founding member of national tradeswomen groups SALT (Supporting and Linking Tradeswomen) and Sparkettes, a group for women and gender diverse people within the electrical industry.