In a time of rapid technological evolution and rising global expectations for sustainability, a select group of industry leaders gathered for an exclusive workshop hosted under the visionary banner of the proposed ASPiRE 5.0 Industrial Transformation Training Centre (ITTC). This event was more than a meeting—it was a catalyst for change, designed to help businesses navigate the complex terrain of ESG transformation and Industry 5.0.

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The workshop featured two distinguished speakers: Dr. Thomas Schläfer, Engineering Manager R&D at LaserBond Limited, who shared firsthand insights into the value of ITTC university-industry collaboration, and Professor Göran Roos, a globally respected authority on sustainable industry transformation who outlined how technologies are re-shaping our approach to business and solutions to sustainable practices. Together, they painted a compelling picture of how an ITTC can deliver integrated technologies to drive competitive, ethical, and sustainable manufacturing futures.

 

Participants explored how ESG strategies are evolving from compliance checklists into powerful levers for innovation and long-term value creation. Discussions surfaced the challenges that offer ITTC research potential including cross-sector data sharing, the need for fast validation processes, and the potential of digital twinning and blockchain to enhance supply chain transparency. The workshop also highlighted the importance of human-centric technology adoption, ethical considerations, and the role of virtual environments in future-ready operations.

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Key outputs from the session included:

• Identification of new research pathways in process innovation and green economy product development.

• Recognition of the need for consistent, open data validation and rapid ESG reporting tools.

• Exploration of platform-based supply chain solutions and inter-firm compliance strategies.

• The need to develop a shared vision for Return on Investment (ROI) in Industry 5.0, emphasizing economies of scope and scale.

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The workshop concluded with a strong call to action: to build collaborative ecosystems that not only meet regulatory expectations but shape them—creating a future where Australian industry leads with integrity, innovation, and impact.