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The future of mining is full of exciting opportunities with an abundance of career possibilities.

That’s the message students from the Wide Bay Burnett region will hear today (21 April), when they discover the many science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) pathways that can take them on a rewarding journey into this ever-evolving sector.

The ‘STEM Unearthed’ workshop will see nearly 30 Year 10 students from Bundaberg State High School and Gin Gin State High School uncover how important and sought-after STEM skills are in the resources sector, thanks to Evolution Mining and Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

The QMEA is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

Evolution Mining Mt Rawdon General Manager Darren Gibcus said the company is eager to plant the seed of interest in a resources career at its operations into the young minds of its local community.

“Our next mining engineer, environmental officer or data scientists could be in the classroom today, getting hands-on experience in activities that replicate various aspects of a mine site, from mineral processing and chemical engineering to sequence planning and rehabilitation,” he said.

“It’s critical we all understand the array of career opportunities available to the next generation in our community.” Evolution supports sustainable community outcomes via employment and training across a wide range of professional and trade-based roles.

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Katrina-Lee Jones emphasised the necessity of encouraging students to pursue excellence in science-related subjects to open doors to a variety of roles in the sector.

“The Wide Bay Burnett region has benefited from a long history of developing high-quality mineral resources, with known deposits and projects expected to generate up to 1,140 jobs every year, so we want the mining industry to be the employer of choice for local communities.”

Bundaberg State High School Principal, Mr Christopher Gill said these types QMEA workshops are a valuable opportunity for students to discover the real-world applications of their classroom learning.

“Our students are always excited to learn there are more opportunities in the resources and energy industry in addition to the traditional and more commonly-known vocational roles,” Mr Gill said.

“We want them to understand the subjects they choose in their final school years can pave a pathway to a successful future right here in their hometowns in a sector that’s partnered with our community for over 160 years.”

As Australia’s largest and most successful industry-led education and schools training 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 over 90 schools and is a partnership between the QRC and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.