Adrian Lea is a seasoned vocational education leader with over 20 years’ experience driving reform, innovation, and operational excellence across Victoria. He currently advises the Victorian Government on Training Package development as Executive Officer, Curriculum Maintenance Manager (Engineering Industries).

Adrian has led large-scale education delivery across Corrections, Defence, Aviation, Trades and VET in Schools, combining strategic foresight with hands-on execution. A sector reformer and systems thinker, he champions learner-centric, future-ready solutions that align workforce development with industry needs and government priorities.

Anthony is a seasoned professional with 30+ years of expertise in the Automotive and Engineering industries, complemented by business management qualifications. He has built his career from the ground up, currently serving as an Automotive Training Manager for Major Training Group. Anthony’s diverse experience includes strategic leadership, operations management at MTAQ, and roles in Vocational Education and Training. Known for his values of honesty and integrity, he excels in leading teams, engaging stakeholders, and driving business success through a strong industry network.

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. 

With nearly four decades specialising in buses within the automotive sector, Dean started as an auto electrician. A career in manufacturing, service, training, engineering, and product development - with roles at Mercedes-Benz and Volvo - uniquely positioned Dean to lead zero-emissions technology initiatives for over a decade. He has served as Director of Product and Electromobility at Volvo Buses APAC, fronting the electric city bus launch.

Dean has penned numerous Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) advisories and policy papers, and is also involved in various governmental groups.

Deborah is the Executive Officer of the Automotive Training Board New South Wales (ATB NSW) in Sydney, an organisation that provides a link between the automotive industry and the state’s Department of Education. The Board ensures the voice of industry is heard by policymakers. In the earlier part of her career, Deborah spent 15 years in an automotive workshop performing a range of duties as co-owner. She brings a wealth of industry knowledge to the table.

Jason is 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 help translate complex skills needs into clear, scalable training pathways. As an AUSMASA SWAP representative, Jason will contribute strategic insight, a commitment to training quality, 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 across all automotive trades. 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 future workers to support the industry in selling, servicing and repairing the rapidly growing EV fleet. 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 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 is an accomplished people and culture professional with extensive experience in organisational development and workforce leadership. As National Employee Relationship Manager at United Forklift and Access Solutions, she leads national initiatives that strengthen engagement, retention, and culture. 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. Melissa holds an MBA and advanced qualifications in accounting and finance. Passionate about empowering people and building strong workplace connections, she is dedicated to creating environments where employees and organisations thrive. She is also an Industry Mentor with Curtin University and Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management.

The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) is Australia’s peak body for recreational and light commercial boating. The industry reports over $10.2 billion in annual turnover and employs around 35,000 people across 2,000 businesses.

With over 50 years in recreational boating, Neil champions his late friend Wallace Nichols’ Blue Mind philosophy, that being on, in, by and under the water is good for health and wellbeing. He also brings over 25 years of senior government experience across policy, regulation, strategy and advocacy. Before joining BIA, he led key maritime roles in NSW and has served on numerous State, national and international committees.

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.