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Moura State High School students swapped their textbooks for tools at the latest Tradies for a Day workshop today (31 March), facilitated by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

A cohort of Year 10 students rotated through trade-based activities with generous support from Anglo American tradespeople and apprentices, gaining knowledge and skills across a variety of trades.

Thanks to Welding Australia, the students also tried their hand at welding through a state-of-the-art welding simulator.

General Manager of Anglo American’s Dawson Mine, Clarence Robertson said teaching trade skills to students in the region would help build a trained workforce for the future.

“We’re committed to regional skills development and appreciate the opportunity to provide the students with an experience to learn about the trade pathways available in the resources industry,” he said.

“The students gain practical knowledge through this workshop which will open their minds to what is needed for a safe and successful trade career.”

QRC’s Director of Skills, Education and Diversity Katrina-Lee Jones said that in Queensland, mine sites are calling out for skilled trades people and trades assistants.

“There will be no shortage of jobs for students who take up a trade especially in electrical, diesel and mechanical fields.” Ms Jones said.

“As the sector continues to work toward ambitious diversity and inclusion targets, we also hope that more young women and Indigenous students will consider these rewarding careers.”

Moura State High School Principal Jane Jenkins said the students would benefit from networking with the Anglo-American staff, who will give them a clearer idea of the steps they need to take to embark on a trade career.

“Being able to relate their schoolwork to real life projects is a powerful learning tool.” Ms Jenkins said.

“Anglo American employees at the workshop helped students understand the expectations of successful apprentice applicants, helping them forge a clearer pathway into promising industry careers.

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.