Felipe Barria is an Industrial Engineer and Senior Business Development Consultant at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) in Western Australia. With a background in process improvement, operations, and project management across both international and domestic sectors, Felipe supports small and medium-sized manufacturers in adopting practical, low-risk digital solutions that deliver clear business value.

Felipe currently leads digital engagement for DPIRD’s Food Industry Innovation program, working hands-on with time-poor, resource-constrained businesses to co-design and implement fit-for-purpose technologies. These include affordable tools for monitoring inventory, temperature, downtime, and process performance—delivered in ways that build workforce capability and digital confidence at every level of the organisation.

His cross-sector experience—spanning manufacturing, financial services, and regional development—underpins his work in advancing digital literacy through tailored workshops, partnerships with TAFEs and universities, and student-led innovation projects. For the rollout of Digital Manufacturing on a Shoestring in Western Australia, Felipe has been instrumental in positioning WA as the first jurisdiction outside the UK to implement this globally recognised initiative.

Whether engaging with agrifood producers, educators, or government stakeholders, Felipe brings a grounded, collaborative approach—focused on scalable outcomes, skills development, and making digital transformation accessible, achievable, and meaningful for every business.

His work aligns closely with the broader digital transition, where automation, AI, and low-cost robotics are increasingly vital to regional competitiveness and resilience.