Date: |
24 Mar 2026, 7.30AM – 9.30AM |
duration: |
2 hrs |
Venue: |
MIT Manukau |
Address: |
58 Manukau Station Road Auckland |
Cost: |
Free event |
Engineering New Zealand invites members to a dynamic morning of insight, connection and innovation at the Manukau Institute of Technology (TechPark campus).
The event will begin with breakfast and freshly brewed coffee, followed by a keynote presentation from Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, Executive Director of MIT and Unitec.
His presentation, “The Future Isn’t Centralised: Why Local Training Matters More Than Ever,” will explore how regionally focused education and industry-connected training are shaping the future of engineering in Aotearoa. It will present the innovative initiatives and collaborative work being undertaken across engineering disciplines, along with the diverse study areas offered across MIT and Unitec Institute of Technology.
Following the presentation, attendees will enjoy a guided tour of the Tech Park, gaining first-hand insight into the latest research facilities and applied learning environments that support the next generation of engineers.
This event offers a valuable opportunity for members to connect with educators, explore emerging capabilities, and discover how to engage with graduates equipped to meet evolving industry needs – all while enjoying breakfast and coffee provided on the morning.
PPE Required: Closed toe footwear.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga (Faleasiu, Vaiala and Puapua, Samoa)
Executive Director, MIT and Unitec
Peseta Sam has been in the tertiary education sector for the last eight years having joined MIT as Deputy Chief Executive, Pasifika in September 2017. Sam has extensive networks in Tāmaki Makaurau as well as nationally and is a voice for Pacific peoples in education.
He has also provided executive leadership to teams developing attractive, connected and inspiring student journeys for learners from all backgrounds at both MIT and Unitec. Prior to joining MIT, he spent nine years as the MP for Maungakiekie serving as Minister for Pacific Peoples, Ethnic Communities, Corrections and Local Government.
Born in Apia, Peseta Sam grew up in Māngere, raised by parents who like so many of their generation came to Aotearoa to make better lives for their children. He believes in education as our best opportunity to improve our lives as individuals and communities.
MIT Tech Park visit and presentation on the future of engineering over coffee and breakfast!
Engineering New Zealand invites members to a dynamic morning of insight, connection and innovation at the Manukau Institute of Technology (TechPark campus).
The event will begin with breakfast and freshly brewed coffee, followed by a keynote presentation from Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, Executive Director of MIT and Unitec.
His presentation, “The Future Isn’t Centralised: Why Local Training Matters More Than Ever,” will explore how regionally focused education and industry-connected training are shaping the future of engineering in Aotearoa. It will present the innovative initiatives and collaborative work being undertaken across engineering disciplines, along with the diverse study areas offered across MIT and Unitec Institute of Technology.
Following the presentation, attendees will enjoy a guided tour of the Tech Park, gaining first-hand insight into the latest research facilities and applied learning environments that support the next generation of engineers.
This event offers a valuable opportunity for members to connect with educators, explore emerging capabilities, and discover how to engage with graduates equipped to meet evolving industry needs – all while enjoying breakfast and coffee provided on the morning.
PPE Required: Closed toe footwear.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga (Faleasiu, Vaiala and Puapua, Samoa)
Executive Director, MIT and Unitec
Peseta Sam has been in the tertiary education sector for the last eight years having joined MIT as Deputy Chief Executive, Pasifika in September 2017. Sam has extensive networks in Tāmaki Makaurau as well as nationally and is a voice for Pacific peoples in education.
He has also provided executive leadership to teams developing attractive, connected and inspiring student journeys for learners from all backgrounds at both MIT and Unitec. Prior to joining MIT, he spent nine years as the MP for Maungakiekie serving as Minister for Pacific Peoples, Ethnic Communities, Corrections and Local Government.
Born in Apia, Peseta Sam grew up in Māngere, raised by parents who like so many of their generation came to Aotearoa to make better lives for their children. He believes in education as our best opportunity to improve our lives as individuals and communities.
Presenters
Auckland Branch
