stem is gem

Emerald and Blackwater State High Schools’ students will find some hidden gems in the form of exciting science technology engineering and maths (STEM) careers available in the resources sector when professionals from surrounding mining operations visit Emerald SHS today.

Staff from BMA and Coronado Curragh will mentor the students in a STEM4Schoolkids workshop run by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

Students will investigate minerals processing and chemical extraction; mine planning and logistics from exploration to rehabilitation; problem solving and teamwork, while working against the clock in process engineering challenges.

Their mentors will also give them first-hand knowledge of their careers and what it takes to step onto a pathway into the resources sector.

“STEM skills are critical for the next generation to develop for a career in our industry,” says BMA Asset President James Palmer.

“Through the QMEA we are actively encouraging students to develop those skills, so they place themselves in the best position for a future in resources.”

Coronado Curragh’s Emma Pollard, Vice President People and Culture agreed and said it was a great way to retain young people in the community and the resources sector was one of the few industries that could offer regionally-based careers pathways for professionals.

“Our staff always come back invigorated from these events and enthuse about the depth of talent in our local schools.”

Principal of Emerald SHS Sean Maher said the students looked forward to the events which help them place their school work into a real-world context.

“You can see the penny drop when they see how maths and science concepts relate to every-day challenges in the workplace.”

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