Why mechanical engineering matters

In a world built on innovation, problem-solving, and precision, mechanical engineering is the quiet force behind the scenes—powering industries, designing the future, and keeping the wheels of New Zealand’s economy turning.

Mechanical engineering isn’t just nuts, bolts, and blueprints. It’s a critical trade that underpins 21st-century manufacturing, maintenance, and machinery across nearly every sector—from dairy to defence, forestry to food production.

The backbone of industry

Mechanical engineers and technicians are essential in keeping New Zealand’s key industries moving. They design, build, maintain, and repair the machines that make things happen.

Whether it’s maintaining a bottling line in a beverage factory, machining parts for heavy transport, or designing safer, smarter systems for energy efficiency—mechanical engineers are problem-solvers at the heart of the action.

But here’s the challenge: there simply aren’t enough of them. And the demand is real.

In 2024, there were 27,448 filled jobs across the mechanical engineering sector in New Zealand. By 2030, a further 8,919 job openings are forecasted, with 1,120 new jobs and 7,798 replacement roles needed to keep industries running. (Source: Infometrics / Stats NZ, 2024)

Employers across the country are facing a growing shortage of mechanical engineers and technicians. With an annual sector growth rate of 1.1%, that shortage is only expected to widen unless more people step up to train.

That’s why now is the time to get qualified—and be part of the next generation keeping our industries in motion.

A career of purpose and progress

Mechanical engineering offers more than just a stable job. It’s a career that challenges the curious, rewards the hands-on, and evolves alongside technology.

Through apprenticeships and on-job training supported by Competenz, learners gain the technical skills and real-world experience to earn while they learn—and build careers that are future-proof, well-paid, and in high demand.

Skills that move with you

“Mechanical engineering opens doors—not just to a variety of roles, but to locations across New Zealand and the world. From small-town workshops to major manufacturers and global exporters, trained mechanical engineers are always in demand” states Greg Stuart, National Manager – Apprenticeships, Competenz.

And the opportunities are diverse. The top five jobs in the sector make up nearly 80% of the mechanical engineering workforce, including:

• Fitter (General)

• Mechanical Engineer

• Fitter-Welder

• Mechanical Engineering Technician

• Fitter and Turner.

(Source: Infometrics / Stats NZ, 2024)

These skills are transferable, adaptable, and increasingly critical in emerging industries such as renewable energy, automation, and robotics.

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"Mechanical engineering is more than just a trade, it’s innovation in motion. It’s sustainable thinking. It’s the ability to design smarter, build better, and work safer.”— Greg Stuart, National Manager – Apprenticeships, Competenz

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At Competenz, we’re proud to support the training and development of New Zealand’s Engineering workforce. Every apprentice trained helps build the skills our industries need to innovate, adapt, and thrive in the future to come.

Click here to learn more about our qualifications and upskilling your team in Mechanical Engineering.

Ready to get started?

If you’re an employer looking to grow your team—or a learner ready to launch a career that builds the future—talk to us today.

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Let’s keep NZ industries moving, one apprentice at a time.

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