As we prepare for another year of growth and collaboration across Aotearoa’s industrial textiles sector, the ATA New Zealand Executive has set a clear direction for 2026. Our focus remains on strengthening the value we deliver to members, amplifying the skills and innovation within our industry, and ensuring our sector continues to thrive.

Below is a snapshot of the key initiatives underway for the year ahead.

Expanding Member Benefits
One of our primary goals for the coming year is to build a stronger suite of member benefits. We are actively exploring new partnerships, resources, and support tools that will provide real, practical value to businesses of all sizes—from sole fabricators to large manufacturing workshops.

From professional development opportunities to business support and industry-specific resources, our aim is to ensure that an ATA NZ membership delivers more than ever before.

Promoting Qualifications and Apprenticeships
With the launch of the new Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications, ATA NZ is committed to promoting training pathways and helping members understand how these updated programmes can lift capability within their businesses.

We’ll be working closely with MAST Academy to:

• Highlight the value of apprenticeships
• Share success stories from businesses and learners
• Provide clarity around the new qualification structure
• Support employers looking to take on apprentices

As the industry grows, these learning pathways will play a crucial role in shaping the workforce of the future.

Showcasing Our Members
Our members are doing incredible work across marine, automotive, outdoor structures, shade solutions, commercial interiors, sustainability initiatives, and more. This year, we’ll be shining a brighter spotlight on those achievements.

Expect to see more:

• Member features
• Project showcases
• Behind-the-scenes stories
• Regional highlights

These stories not only celebrate our people but help the wider public understand the creativity, innovation, and problem-solving that define the industrial textiles sector.

More Learning Sessions and Industry Collaboration

Professional development is a major priority for us. In 2026, ATA NZ will offer more learning sessions, training workshops, and knowledge-sharing events.

Some will be delivered in partnership with MAST Academy, while others will involve collaborations with other aligned industries.

These sessions will support our members in up-skilling their teams, adopting new technologies, and staying aligned with best practice. Sessions will be offered both in person and online.

Building the 2026 Conference Line-Up
Planning is well underway for the 2026 ATA NZ Conference and Awards. The aim is to deliver a conference that is inspiring, informative, and of genuine value to everyone who attends.

More details will be shared in the months ahead—but we can already say that 2026 will be a standout year.

Growing the Organisation
Above all, the Executive is committed to growing ATA New Zealand—not just in numbers, but in strength, influence, and connection.

This includes:

• Strengthening relationships with suppliers and partners including STA and ATA
• Increasing engagement across regions
• Providing more opportunities for members to connect
• Ensuring the organisation reflects and supports the needs of the industry
• Continuing to represent our sector nationally and internationally

Together, we are building a stronger, more unified industry capable of meeting new challenges and seizing new opportunities.

Moving Forward Together
The year ahead is full of potential for our association and our industry. With your support and involvement, ATA NZ will continue to champion excellence, promote learning, and help build a vibrant, resilient future for industrial textiles in Aotearoa.