Click here for workshop photos.

There was a new perspective on physics for a class of Moranbah State High School science students today as they worked through the challenge of creating a model crane as part of a Heavy Hydraulics workshop delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) in partnership with Anglo American.

The Year 11 students worked in groups to design and build a functional model crane using everyday materials.

Katrina-Lee Jones, Policy Director for Skills, Education and Diversity for the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) said the workshop extended the students understanding of engineering concepts in the Australian curriculum.

“This workshop blends physics with digital design skills, showing the students how engineering principles are applied in the real world,” Ms Jones said.

“It also gives them a greater appreciation of the problem-solving skills required as an engineer or mechanic, with both of these roles in high demand in the resources industry.”

Anglo American’s Moranbah North Mine general manager, Paul Stephan, said partnering with the QMEA to deliver the workshop was a great opportunity to engage with local students.

“Our people were able to help the students as they tackled the crane design challenge and also give them some insights into how hydraulics are integrated into an operational mine site,” Mr Stephan said.

Problem-solving is a critical skill as students move into the workforce and they demonstrated great teamwork to overcome design hurdles.

“I am confident there are some future mining engineers, operational technicians and mechanics in this group.”

This year the QMEA is celebrating 20 years of inspiring students to follow a trades or science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) study pathway with a focus on the many rewarding career opportunities in the resources sector.

For more information about careers in the resources sector visit: shapeyourfuture.com.au