Building a Stronger Manufacturing Sector

Dean McCarroll, Managing Director of Okuma Australia & New Zealand shares his views on the evolution of local manufacturing and explained how Okuma continues to lead the industry through innovation, and commitment to quality to continue to drive the manufacturing industry forward for long-term customer success.

What has been your guiding philosophy for Okuma Australia & New Zealand, and how has this shaped the business?

Okuma Australia and Okuma New Zealand are wholly owned subsidiaries of Okuma Japan, and the influence of Japanese culture is deeply embedded in everything we do, particularly through the Monozukuri philosophy. Introduced into our business over eight years ago, Monozukuri, the art of making things better, has become a defining part of our identity.

This philosophy pushes us beyond simply supplying machines. It drives us to refine processes, elevate customer experiences, and ensure every solution we deliver provides long-term value. It has shaped a culture of continuous improvement, pride in our work, and a commitment to supporting customers throughout the entire lifecycle of their Okuma CNC machines.

Monozukuri also directs our internal processes of employee satisfaction, growth, training and mentoring programs. We believe that if our employees are happy and feel valued, that will be reflected in their daily work and interactions as well as their home life. This focus on people ensures that the same care we put into our products and services is reflected in the way we support and develop our team.

Monozukuri sets us apart. It reinforces our commitment to delivering not just machines, but complete solutions that evolve with our customers’ needs and contribute lasting value to their businesses.

Have you seen any shift in the types of machines customers are buying across Australia & New Zealand recently?

Absolutely.  Okuma has long been recognised as a leading global brand, and we’re seeing a clear shift toward multifunctional, larger CNC machines and increased demand for automation solutions. Manufacturers are looking for equipment that can do more, do it faster, and do it with greater precision.

There’s also a misconception that Okuma sits only at the high end of the market. In reality, our Affordable Excellence range has opened the door for many start‑ups and smaller manufacturers who want to begin their journey with a premium brand backed by exceptional service and partnership. With the AUD and NZ exchange rates recently reaching record highs, our machines have never been more accessible.

Manufacturers across Australia and New Zealand are recognising that investing in Okuma means investing in reliability, longevity, and a partnership that supports their growth.

How have you seen the industry change over the years and what does the future look like?

I’ve been in the industry for many years, over 50 years in fact, and it has transformed dramatically. Today, manufacturing spans an incredible range of sectors, from space and satellite technology to medical devices, renewable energy, sovereign manufacturing and advanced automation. The pace of technological advancement has been remarkable.

While some still imagine manufacturing as dirty, manual work, the reality is very different. Today’s modern workshops are clean, highly automated, and equipped with cutting‑edge technology. This shift has made the industry far more attractive to young engineers and tradespeople who want to work with advanced systems, robotics, and innovative processes.

At the same time, the industry faces challenges such as skills shortages and the need for ongoing workforce development. Okuma is also working closely with TAFEs, universities and other networking organisations to encourage younger people or those considering a career change, to see manufacturing as a highly viable and rewarding option. By supporting education pathways and industry engagement, we’re helping build the next generation of skilled professionals.

Australian and New Zealand manufacturers continue to compete very well globally by embracing innovation, investing in high-quality equipment, and adopting smarter, more efficient production methods.  Looking ahead, the industry is poised for even greater integration of automation and sustainable manufacturing practices, areas where Okuma is well positioned to support customers for the long term with local support across our branch offices in Australia and New Zealand.

Okuma has a strong community of CNC machine owners and users – what do you attribute that to?

Okuma has built a very strong community of Okuma CNC owners and operators, and that comes down to the way we engage with our customers from the initial meeting, the project management and then long after the machine is delivered. We offer 12-months of bottomless training with every new machine, ensuring every operator (new or experienced) can build confidence and capability at their own pace. Our free Lunch & Learn sessions are open to all machine operators and create a space for ongoing education, networking, and sharing best practices across the industry.

Another key factor is the depth of experience within our Okuma team. Our sales, service, and applications engineers all come from trade backgrounds, so customers know they’re speaking with people who genuinely understand machining, not just selling it. This combination of practical expertise and continuous support has created a loyal, highly engaged community that sees Okuma as a long-term partner, not just a supplier.

The future of local manufacturing looks bright. With advancing technology, a growing community of skilled users, and Okuma’s unwavering commitment to innovation and support, we’re excited for what lies ahead and proud to help shape this exciting new era alongside our customers.