Students from across central Queensland have set out on trade and professional pathways to careers in the resources sector this week thanks to the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

The students took part in geology and engineering exercises under the watchful eye of mentors from BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) at the company’s Peak Downs and Goonyella Riverside mines in Moranbah. The Make It Now in Engineering (MINE) challenge is aimed at high-achieving secondary students interested in pursuing a professional career in resources.

BMA’s General Manager of Peak Downs Mine, Brendan Lynn, said students toured the mine site and presented to management on their new-found knowledge.

“The aim of the week-long event is to give students a real-life experience of professional roles in the resources sector and provide them with the knowledge to be able to solve challenges faced every day on a mine site,” Mr Lynn said.

Students who show an aptitude for trade or operator roles took part in a trade camp at Moura. This included learning first-hand from Anglo American specialists from its Dawson mine.

Queensland Resources Council (QRC) Director of Skills, Education and Diversity Katrina-Lee Jones said as well as building enthusiasm, these camps open students’ minds to the many and varied opportunities for them in the resources sector.

“These camps have a proven track record of providing a pathway for these young bright minds into real jobs in the resources sector,” Ms Jones said.

QMEA is the education and skills arm of the QRC and is tasked with providing pathways for students into the resources sector. It is a partnership between the resources sector and government through the Gateway to Industry Schools Program.