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More than 30 Brisbane girls are today (24 June) taking part in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) challenges at a special female-only Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) ‘STEM Unearthed’ workshop.

The QMEA, the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), is providing the Year 10 students from San Sisto College with insights into the many career opportunities available in the resources sector including chemical engineering, environmental engineering, geology and metallurgy.

QRC’s Policy Director of Skills, Education and Diversity Katrina-Lee Jones said she was delighted to see so much local interest in the girls-only workshop.

“The main goal of the program is to show students how the subjects that they study in school have direct relevance to the skills and knowledge required in the resources sector,” she said.

“STEM Unearthed has students working in teams to complete three activities over the course of the day. These include designing the best run ‘mine’, comparing techniques of copper extraction and sharpening their process-engineering skills to develop the perfect drink.”

“It’s great to see the sector showcase the hands-on and technical aspects of the many opportunities available in STEM-related careers, particularly for female and Indigenous students,” said San Sisto College Principal Shelley Hamilton.

“Problem solving, communication and teamwork came to life and provided real-world learning opportunities for the students.”

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 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.