We’re happy to share the launch of a skills forecasting tool for the food and fibre sector. The tool brings together data from Stats NZ Integrated Data Infrastructure, Tertiary Education Commission, and Ministry for Primary Industries to forecast possible workforce scenarios and help plan for the training needs to meet demand. 

A first of its kind for the food and fibre sector, the tool uses a micro-simulation approach, allowing users to model and compare a range of workforce scenarios. The model runs from the year 2000 to 2050, enabling calibration against historic data for accuracy. 

“It’s vital that the food and fibre sector of Aotearoa is equipped with a skilled workforce that meets evolving industry demands and technological advancements,” says Chief Executive Jeremy Baker. “The tool will allow industry, government, and the vocational education and training system to utilise new data to assist with planning for their workforce development goals.” 

By examining how different factors – such as training decline, technology advancement, and cost changes – could impact skills requirements, users can gain a clear, data-driven view of the future workforce needs of their sector. 

The tool’s forecasting capabilities offer decision-makers a clearer understanding of the potential challenges and opportunities ahead, helping them make data-informed choices. 

The tool has already been piloted with various industry organisations including Horticulture New Zealand, MBIE, DairyNZ, Forest Industry Contractors Association, and Lincoln University.   

Lisa Futschek, Chief Executive of Seafood NZ says they’re delighted to see the development of a tool to assist in forecasting the workforce and training needs. “The scenario planning function will be invaluable in supporting the seafood industry to address future challenges and opportunities requiring a skilled workforce.”  

This is the initial public release – we want the sector to help us grow and improve the model. If you would like to be part of this work, or have any feedback or suggestions for new scenarios, please get in touch with the team via [email protected]   

Explore the Skills Forecasting tool here: Skills Forecasting