Australian Army and QinetiQ MakerSpace program expands

QinetiQ Australia announced the opening of the ninth Army MakerSpace site at Simpson Barracks, marking a significant expansion of its partnership with the Australian Army to support them to foster innovation and problem solving skills. Since its inception in July 2021, the MakerSpace program has provided Army personnel, from all ranks and trades, with the tools, training, and mindset necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving battlespace. This program is central to QinetiQ’s commitment to supporting the Army in meeting future operational challenges through innovative thinking and advanced technical skills. The new MakerSpace at Simpson Barracks is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including CNC laser cutters, 3D printers, CAD work areas, and electronics workstations. These facilities will enable Army personnel to engage in hands-on learning, design thinking, and agile project management, all while fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving. The MakerSpace program has already made a significant impact, with over 29,000 sign-ins across the existing sites since July 2021. With the new site at Simpson Barracks, the Army aims to further extend this reach, targeting 20,000 enrolments across the network by the end of the year. The program has also expanded its reach to Army Cadet units and is establishing opportunities to train ADF veterans before they transition to civilian industries and post formal service. Jasmine Kastaniotis, MakerSpace and Innovation Program Manager at QinetiQ Australia said: “The Army’s MakerSpace initiative is designed to enhance soldiers’ cognitive abilities through creativity and non-traditional ways of thinking. By providing access to cutting-edge technology and innovative training, we are helping to develop highly agile military personnel capable of solving the complex challenges of modern warfare.” QinetiQ’s close collaboration with the Army’s Robotic & Autonomous Systems Implementation & Coordination Office (RICO) has been instrumental in understanding the Army’s objectives and delivering innovative engineering spaces that support the Army’s Future Ready Land Force priorities. This new site at Simpson Barracks is another step forward in this ongoing partnership, ensuring that Army personnel are equipped with the technical and creative skills needed to anticipate and overcome future challenges. LTCOL Alex Palmer, Emerging Technology Manager at Robotic & Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office (RICO) said: “We welcome the expansion of the MakerSpace program with the opening of the ninth site at Simpson Barracks. This initiative plays a crucial role in preparing our soldiers to face the challenges of modern warfare by fostering innovation and enhancing their technical skills. With access to these cutting-edge facilities, our personnel are better equipped to think creatively, solve complex problems, and stay ahead of emerging threats.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact : Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]