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Miles State High School students got fired up for Term 4 today when they embarked on an exciting learning adventure, unleashing their STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) potential and igniting a passion for rewarding careers in the gas industry.

For the second year in a row, the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) which is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has joined forces with Origin Energy, Upstream Operator for Australia Pacific LNG, to deliver an unparalleled day of action-packed STEM fun.

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said 85 students from Years 7 to 9 rotated through a series of hands-on activities linked with the Australian Curriculum, that explored the fascinating intricacies of a gas project.

“Students kicked off the thrilling STEM expedition by delving into a core drilling exercise where they gained insight into how data collected beneath the surface can unveil the secrets of underground gas reserves,” Ms Jones said.

“It was all about turning data into discoveries and sparking critical thinking about extraction and project viability as students graphed their own “core” sample to bring their team’s geological exploration to life. Discussions also revolved around the cutting-edge technology used to map underground layers of rock, minerals, metals, and coal seams.”

General Manager Asset East for Origin, Mr Steve Thatcher said students learnt how pressurization and physics play a vital role in underground gas extraction as well as how electricity and scientific monitoring equipment are used in the gas and energy industry.

“By understanding the science behind the process, students will be able to connect their school studies to real-world applications, gaining firsthand knowledge of the diverse career pathways available in the gas and energy industry,” Mr Thatcher said.

Miles State High School Principal, Mrs Josette Moffatt said the last activity showcased cutting-edge technology used in the industry to keep gas pipelines safe and operational.

“Equipped with Lego EV3 robots, students put their coding skills to the test as they programmed their devices to autonomously drive around a simulated gas pipeline, replicating remote inspections,” Mrs Moffatt said.

“This program cleverly highlighted the innovation and creativity needed in the gas industry to meet the demands of the future, while fuelling their passion for STEM education and unveiling the boundless possibilities within the gas and energy industry.”

As Australia’s largest and most successful industry-led education and schools initiative, the QMEA seeks to broaden student and teacher knowledge of career opportunities in resources.

The academy encourages a talent pipeline of employees into vocational and professional careers, with a focus on female and Indigenous participation. The QMEA currently engages with 99 schools and is a partnership between the QRC and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.