Delving into critical minerals and careers at JCU
Studying critical minerals and geology involves a lot more than looking at rocks – one of many facts discovered by Year 10 students attending the first Ore Insights workshop at James Cook University (JCU) in Townsville today.
The workshop, delivered by the QMEA Resources Skills Academy in partnership with JCU, is a new initiative designed for students interested in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects with a focus on the career roles in the resources industry.
The students, from Pimlico State High School, spent time with experts from JCU’s Economic Geology Research Centre (EGRU), discovering more about geoscience and how critical minerals are discovered, extracted and processed.
During the day they completed geology experiments and data analysis activities aligned to the senior science curriculum in the university laboratory.
Kaylene Camuti, EGRU Manager, said there were two bonuses for the students.
“Today the students are getting a deeper understanding of critical minerals and the science facilities at our university,” said Ms Camuti.
“Experiences like today are incredibly valuable as students decide whether they want to continue STEM studies at university after school.”
Jen Hoyle, Acting Director – QMEA, said the new partnership between the academy and James Cook University was an exciting initiative for Townsville schools.
“The mining of critical minerals is a big industry in this region and we are keen to show local students how they can follow their university and career goals in North Queensland,” said Ms Hoyle.
“There is a constant demand for STEM professionals in the resources sector, especially with the role critical minerals are playing in the production of new technologies and sustainability initiatives,” she said.
“I hope today has inspired some of the students to continue geoscience studies at school and onto university.”
Media Contact: Matt Dunstan – mattd@qrc.org.au