Redlands business, JAG Welding has been awarded almost $800,000 through the Queensland Government to introduce industry leading technology into daily practice as part of the Made in Queensland (MiQ) program.
JAG Welding is to install a robotic welding arm and software that will create new capabilities and is estimated to add 15 new full-time jobs and up to 33 over the next five years through a grant of $794, 146.25.
Minister for Manufacturing, Glen Butcher and Member for Redlands, Kim Richards toured the business and facility when the funding was announced.
“This MiQ grant of almost $800,000 is helping them … reach that next level,” Minister Butcher said.
“The new equipment and software will reduce customer wait time by 33 per cent, increase employee safety, profitability and reduce production costs.
“We know the stamp, Made in Queensland, means more jobs in manufacturing and that’s why we are delivering our plan to strengthen manufacturing in this state.”
Managing Director of JAG Welding, David Shepherd said that grants like the MiQ help businesses gain a competitive advantage, grow the customer base and employ more staff locally.
“We know that jobs like welding can be hot, dirty and smelly and they don’t attract women in strong numbers,” he said.
“We’re hoping to change that by creating a more attractive working environment where the role is more appealing to women who may be looking for jobs in manufacturing.
“The visit went well, the Redland’s minister Kim Richards and Minister Butcher visited, and he has a manufacturing background and they were quite happy with what they saw.
“We encourage female apprentices to join the workforce and for that workforce to be multicultural as well and predominantly most of our staff are local here in the Redlands.”
