Inspiration for the next generation: Mining and Logistics at School
Dysart State High School students from Years 7, 8 and 9 have taken a deep dive into the world of mining, logistics, and occupational health and safety at an innovative workshop designed to ignite interest in STEM fields and the resources sector.
The full-day ‘Pit to Port’ workshop, held on 19 October at Dysart SHS, was facilitated by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and supported by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).
Students were introduced to the intricacies of mining and logistics at the workshop. Around 20 students collaborated in teams, guided by representatives from BMA, who were on hand to answer questions about the realities of their work in the industry.
QMEA’s Manager of Skills and Education, Matthew Heskett, explained that the workshop aimed to give students a deep understanding of mining and logistics, along with industry safety considerations. “In a fun and challenging environment, we are providing young people with new ways to apply their STEM knowledge, and entry-points for engaging with the resources sector in the future.”
“This was the first time that we had run the ‘Pit to Port’ workshop in Dysart, and students really enjoyed learning how natural resources extracted and processed from local mines are exported to a global market,” he added.
Glenn Kirkpatrick General Manager of BMA’s Saraji Mine said that its representatives were impressed by the level of interest shown by Dysart students. “Young people are the future leaders and innovators for our sector. We are pleased that our mining professionals from BMA can contribute to a greater understanding of the complexities of our industry and help students to find out more about exciting career pathways.”
As Australia’s largest and most successful industry-led education and schools 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 99 schools and is a partnership with the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.