Reflecting on EDUtech Australia 2026: Meaningful Conversations, Valuable Insights
From 3–4 June 2026, the OMTech Australia team was proud to exhibit at EDUtech Australia 2026, one of the country's leading education technology events. Over two busy days, we had the opportunity to meet educators, STEM coordinators, technology teachers, school leaders, makerspace managers, and industry partners from across Australia and New Zealand.
More importantly, we had some fantastic conversations.
It was great to hear how schools are using digital fabrication tools to support STEM learning, design thinking, entrepreneurship programs, and hands-on project-based learning. We also enjoyed connecting with existing customers, future users, and fellow industry suppliers who share a passion for preparing students for the future.
While every school has unique needs, several common questions came up again and again.
1. Value Matters More Than Price
The most frequent discussion was around the budget.
Many schools were already familiar with premium laser brands such as Trotec and Universal, but were looking for a solution that could deliver professional results without consuming a large portion of their technology budget.
For educators, value meant balancing:
- Capability
- Safety
- Support
- Training
- Long-term reliability
rather than simply choosing the cheapest machine.
2. Safety Is Essential
Safety was the second most common topic.
Teachers and school decision-makers wanted to understand laser classifications, classroom suitability, and compliance requirements.
Questions around Class 1 safety, machine enclosures, interlocks, and student operation were especially common.
The message was clear: schools need confidence that laser technology can be safely integrated into learning environments.
3. Installation and Training Build Confidence
Many schools were excited about laser technology but had limited experience using it.
Questions such as:
- Who installs the machine?
- Is training available?
- How easy is the software to learn?
- What support is available after purchase?
were raised frequently.
Schools aren't just buying equipment—they're investing in a complete solution that teachers can confidently adopt.
4. Filtration and Indoor Operation Are Important
Because most school lasers operate indoors, filtration and ventilation were major concerns.
Educators wanted to know:
- How smoke is managed
- Whether filtration systems are available
- What materials are safe to process indoors
For many schools, extraction solutions are a key part of the purchasing decision.
5. Bed Size Matters for Classroom Projects
Teachers often think in terms of entire classes rather than individual projects.
Many asked about work area size and whether machines could efficiently handle group projects, batch production, and larger student assignments.
Interest was particularly strong in larger-format systems such as the OMTech Pronto Series, where increased bed size supports more productive classroom workflows.
6. Rotary Attachments Generated Strong Interest
Several teachers asked about rotary attachments and advanced applications.
Ideas included:
- Engraved drink bottles
- Tumblers
- Pens
- Promotional products
- Student design projects
These conversations showed that many educators are already thinking beyond basic laser cutting and exploring real-world manufacturing applications.
7. UV Printing Is Clearly on Schools' Radar
One of the biggest surprises was the level of interest in UV printing.
Many visitors asked how UV printers could work alongside laser cutters to create:
- Full-colour signage
- Awards and plaques
- Product prototypes
- Entrepreneurship projects
- Promotional products
The ability to combine laser cutting with direct-to-object printing was particularly appealing to schools building modern makerspaces and fabrication labs.
Looking Ahead
One key takeaway from EDUtech Australia 2026 was that schools are ready to embrace digital fabrication—but they need solutions that are practical, safe, affordable, and supported.
Educators aren't buying laser machines simply because they're exciting technology. They're investing in tools that help students design, create, problem-solve, and bring ideas to life.
We'd like to thank everyone who visited the OMTech booth and shared their experiences, questions, and feedback. These conversations help us better understand the needs of Australian schools and how we can continue supporting STEM education, makerspaces, and hands-on learning across the country.
We look forward to continuing those conversations—and hopefully seeing many of you again at EDUtech Australia 2027.