AMGC appoints WA director to deliver $8 million wind turbine supply chain program
The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) has appointed Matthew Cronin as its new State Director Western Australia. Matthew will be charged with overseeing the delivery of an $8 million collaborative program to accelerate the participation of advanced manufacturing in the State’s growing wind energy industry.
The appointment follows a collaborative agreement signed by the Western Australian Government and AMGC in May to co-design and deliver co-investment funding that aims to enhance the capacity and capability of the State’s manufacturers to participate in wind energy supply chains.
Cronin brings over 20 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, focusing on critical infrastructure, utilities, energy transition, and resources. He succeeds Angela Doyle, Interim State Director Western Australia, who managed the establishment of this Program, and directed AMGC’s co-funded Federal Program in WA from 2018 to 2022.
“Throughout my career I often reflect on my North Star and finding the union of value, purpose, competency and reward. This role aligns perfectly,” said Cronin.
“Working with local manufacturers on the energy transition, stimulating local industry participation and creating opportunities for self-determination for in our local communities, including aboriginal communities, are my passions. I feel fortunate and grateful to be appointed to this position with the AMGC at this exciting time in Western Australia.”
The program consists of an $8 million commitment from the Western Australian Government under its Wind Turbine Manufacturing Initiative, and acts on recommendations from an independent feasibility study by Aurecon on wind energy manufacturing and servicing opportunities.
“AMGC is excited to build on our record of supporting the best manufacturers across Australia, leading to new economic opportunities and jobs, and lifting the industrial complexity of the nation,” said Dr Jens Goennemann, Managing Director, AMGC.
“We are thrilled to have a person of Matt’s experience and talent lead AMGC’s efforts in Western Australia. We look forward to supporting the State’s industrial base to seize opportunities the booming wind energy sector will create.”
The Aurecon report notes WA’s existing engineering capabilities and transferrable skills from existing industries. Needs that could be met include wind turbine componentry by contracting for or partnering with Original Equipment Manufacturers as well as in the provision of maintenance, construction, and end-of-life services.
Manufacturers operating in Western Australia or seeking to establish a manufacturing base in Western Australia can register their interest in wind energy supply chains participation via https://www.amgc.org.au/news/wind-energy-supply-chain/
Following registration, manufacturers will be kept up to date with news including events and potential funding opportunities.
AMGC is an industry-led organisation focused on transforming Australia’s manufacturing industry by supporting innovation, commercialisation and collaboration. AMGC has an establish presence in Western Australia and leverages its extensive experience to support WA businesses.
Over the past seven years, AMGC has facilitated more than 400 national collaborations and co-funded over 161 industry projects, while creating more than 4,300 jobs across the country. It has invested over $137 million of combined industry and Government funds into manufacturing projects, resulting in an estimated $1.62 billion in additional national revenue.
