Bundaberg students trade their tablets for toolkits
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Bundaberg students traded their tablets for toolkits when they took part in the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA)’s ‘Tradies for a Day’ workshop today (21 May), supported by Evolution Mining.
The QMEA, the school engagement arm of the Queensland Resources Council, engaged with more than 20 Year 10 students from Bundaberg and Gin Gin state high schools to learn hands-on skills and find out more about the pathways to a rewarding trades career in the resources sector.
QRC’s Policy Director of Skills, Education and Diversity Katrina-Lee Jones said mentors from Evolution Mining would be on hand to guide students through several trade-based activities across the day to accommodate the budding tradies.
“We are committed to building meaningful employment pathways into the sector for young people through mentorship opportunities such as this,” she said.
Evolution Mining Sustainability Manager, Greg Coase started his mining career as a fitter and turner and said skilled tradespeople play a key role in the day-to-day operations of many of the Mt Rawdon Operation’s business functions.
“It’s often forgotten amongst the focus on technology that skilled tradespeople still require expert hands-on skills,” he said.
“At Evolution our people are passionate at ensuring an operation that safely operates and ensures value to people who live in our region – it’s great to be a part of a skilled trade-based team who supports each other,” he said.
“It’s important for students to be aware of this rewarding career choice and understand the steps involved in transitioning from school into this career pathway.”
“We’re delighted that our students have this opportunity to test their interest in and aptitude for trade careers,” Bundaberg State High School Acting Principal Rick Dallas said today.
“It helps students put into context their classroom learning, which can be a powerful learning aid,” she said.
The QMEA is Australia’s largest and most successful industry-led education and skills training initiative and seeks to broaden student and teacher knowledge of VET and STEM career opportunities in the resources sector.
The academy is largely funded by QRC members and sponsors, and currently delivers hands-on workshops and programs to 80 Queensland schools. The QMEA has a focus on increasing female and Indigenous participation and is part of the Gateway to Industry Schools Program which is supported and funded by the Queensland Government.
Media Contact: Ellie Blumel – 0448122948 or ellieb@qrc.org.au