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Future scientists got the chance to flex their mind muscles at STEM workshops held at Moranbah and Dysart High Schools recently.

Year 10 students from Dysart SHS and Year 11 students from Moranbah SHS participated in STEM Unearthed workshops delivered by the Queensland Mineral and Energy Academy (QMEA) – the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council. The workshop was sponsored by local mining operation BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

Dysart State High principal, Donna Gilvarry, said the workshop provided a unique opportunity for the students keen on science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects to deep dive into their interest area and find out more about the careers they can lead to.

“These students are seriously contemplating their career aspirations and today’s workshop was perfectly timed to show them how an interest in STEM subjects can lead to an exciting role in the resources sector,” said Ms Gilvarry.

Dane Nielsen General Manager of BMA’s Saraji Mine said it was difficult to judge who enjoyed the day more, the students or the BMA team.

“We were impressed with the students’ enthusiasm with the science activities and their interest in finding out more about the STEM-based careers available to them in the resources industry,” said Dane.

“We’re keen to engage with early career STEM professionals, like engineers, data technicians and geologists – they will be a big part of our future and we hope to provide these opportunities to young people in the local community.”

Katrina-Lee Jones, QRC Director for Skills, Education and Diversity, said the students worked in groups to complete STEM activities modelled on exploration, extraction and engineering processes common to resource operations.

“The aim of the STEM Unearthed workshop is to create a link for the students between their school studies and how these can relate to the real world, and ultimately a potential career.”

“When we show them the life cycle of a mine, and the range of roles involved in the different stages the students are often pleasantly surprised about the diversity of career pathways available to them.”

To find out more about potential careers in the resources sector visit Shape Your Future.