15 June 

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 More than 20 students from Ayr and Home Hill state high schools will learn the drill when they take part in Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA)’s ‘On the Tools’ workshop this week (15-17 June). 

The QMEA, Queensland Resources Council (QRC)’s education arm has collaborated with Australian gold miner Evolution Mining and their Mount Carlton team to hold a three-day workshop, which offers Years 11 and 12 students the opportunity to work in a simulated work environment on a trade-based project. 

 With guidance from Evolution Mining industry mentors, the students will design and build a miniature vehicle including head lights, stop lights, indicators and an emergency flashing light coupled with the development of a corresponding electrical circuit. 

“This is a great opportunity for students to apply design–thinking and problem-solving skills while working with industry tradespeople and apprentices,” QRC’s Director of Skills, Education and Diversity Katrina-Lee Jones said today. 

 “These students are our industry’s future employees and experiences like this provide an understanding of the roles and skills required in the resources sector,” she said. 

“Evolution believes it is important for local students to have the opportunity to talk with industry employees about their journey from school into the mining industry and be made aware of local mining career opportunities at a time when they are deciding on their career paths,” said Evolution Mining’s Health, Safety and Community Manager Mark Brown.  

 “The tasks are hands-on and have real–world application across a variety of trades to give the students a real insight into the life of a tradesperson,” he said. 

 Ayr State High School’s Principal Craig Whittred said the students were really looking forward to working alongside industry professionals to create strong lasting connections in the industry and get the practical hands-on experience the workforce is looking for. 

 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.