STUDENTS are set to be given a taste of the resources and energy industry’s diverse range of highly-skilled and diverse occupations through an initiative encouraging an interest in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) careers.
As the world celebrated International Day of Women and Girls in Science yesterday, Australian Resources and Energy Group AREEA was pleased to announce it will be hosting a coordinated series of school-based information and engagement sessions, promoting STEM careers for students aged 9 to 11.
AREEA’s Bright Future STEM program will be rolled in Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.
“The response has been very positive, with hundreds of students already set to be inspired by the industry role models and hands on STEM focused activities brought to them through resources and energy industry employers,” AREEA Acting Chief Executive, Tara Diamond, said.
“Students will hear directly from industry professionals about the interesting and diverse career in resources and energy, while also being introduced to some of the industry’s latest high-tech equipment, technologies and machinery through hands-on activities,” Ms Diamond said.
“Engaging schoolkids to learn about the industry through the use of interactive tools and participating in experiential activities such as virtual reality and drones will teach them about the wide range of highly-skilled, diverse, flexible and rewarding opportunities available through pursuing a career in our great industry.”
In particular, the program will focus on promoting female role models in the resources and energy industry to spark the interest of school-aged girls, ensuring they understand the broad range of opportunities.
“There will be a focus on breaking gender stereotypes of women in STEM by having female role models speak to the groups,” Ms Diamond said.
“Women comprise just 16.7% of Australia’s resources industry workforce, and while much work has been done as AREEA strives to achieve our overarching goal of increasing female participation in the resources and energy industry to 25 per cent by 2020, there is much more work to be done.”
AREEA calls on resources and energy employers to join the initiative, raise awareness amongst young Australians, and help build the future pipeline of home-grown skills.
To participate in AREEA’s 2019 Bright Future STEM program, or for more information, contact AREEA’s Program Manager at [email protected] or via 1800 627 771.
