Te Māramatanga ki ngā Tukanga Tūhura: Insights to Actions

9:15 am 

Opening address: Co-Chairs’ Vision for the Future (15min)

10:25 am 

10:50 am

Presentation - Data-driven decisions for a smarter future: Workforce Journey Indicators and ConstrucTrend (30min)

10:30 am 

Presentation - Meeting the needs: Responsive support models in VET (20min)

10:50 am 

Case study video (5min)

Chief Economist, Simplicity

Shamubeel Eaqub is an influential economist who makes the complexities of economics both easy and engaging. Currently, he serves as the Chief Economist at Simplicity, bringing over two decades of experience.

His career has seen him contribute his expertise at leading institutions, including ANZ Bank, Goldman Sachs JBWere, NZIER, Sense Partners, and now Simplicity.

An alumnus of Lincoln University, he graduated with Honours in Economics and is also a CFA Charterholder. Beyond his professional role, Shamubeel is an accomplished author and a frequent voice in media, known for his insightful commentary on economic and social issues in New Zealand. His published works include influential books such as Growing Apart: Regional Prosperity in New Zealand and co-authored titles like Generation Rent and The New Zealand Economy: An Introduction, which highlight critical issues affecting the nation.

He balances a dynamic portfolio that spans consulting, public speaking, governance, and family life. Residing in Auckland with his wife and two sons, Shamubeel remains a thought leader who brings clarity and accessibility to the world of economics.

Commissioner, Jobs and Skills Australia

Professor Barney Glover AO (Officer of the Order of Australia) began his five-year term as Commissioner of Jobs and Skills Australia in 2024.

Professor Glover is a distinguished academic leader, an accomplished mathematician and mathematics educator with significant experience in developing strong relationships with the vocational education sector. He is well respected for his engagement with First Nations Australians and disadvantaged communities.

He was Vice-Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University for ten years, from 2014-24, and in 2019 was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to tertiary education, professional associations and cultural organisations. In 2015, Professor Glover was awarded the title of Emeritus Professor for his outstanding leadership whilst Vice-Chancellor of Charles Darwin University from 2009 to 2013. Professor Glover was awarded the title of Emeritus Professor and an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from Western Sydney University in 2024 in recognition of his decade of leadership. 

Professor Glover has served on the boards of a diverse range of corporate organisations and several state and national centres covering areas such as health and medical research, energy, mineral exploration, and telecommunications.

Executive Director, ConCOVE Tūhura

Katherine joined ConCOVE Tūhura in May 2022 after two years with the Construction Sector Accord at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. At the Accord, Katherine led the People Development workstream and its five initiatives, including building a Construction Diversity Roadmap and skills strategy. She holds a Master’s in Technological Futures via Tech Futures Lab and has spent time studying design thinking at Stanford University.

Katherine is no stranger to vocational education and has worked for two major industry training organisations before the Reform of Vocational Education. Katherine has also worked in the industry and still declares "her safety boots to be the comfiest footwear I own".

Portfolio Manager, ConCOVE Tūhura

Eve Prince has been a migrant her whole life and grew up bilingual and bicultural. This has shaped Eve's world view and life experiences, leading to a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.

Eve worked in adult education for her whole career, both overseas and in New Zealand. From ESOL, to settlement, and most recently vocational education and training, Eve has taken the key themes of developing people, growing participation, and reducing barriers to her role at ConCOVE. With first-hand experience in both teaching and delivery, and qualification and standard development, Eve has a broad and deep understanding of the needs and solutions available to help industry and individuals.

Dr Kate Bryson is a Social Psychologist who has spent the best part of the last decade researching mental health and wellbeing in the construction industry. She pretends to be a farmer on a small lifestyle block in Horowhenua with her teenage son and a collection of farm animals.