QMEA awards celebrate 20 years of education and inspiration

02 Sep

QMEA awards celebrate 20 years of education and inspiration

In: News, STEM, University, VET, Year 10, Year 11 By: Paula Lazzarini 0 Comment 284 Views

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Click here for video footage from the awards event

The Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) today celebrated two decades of sparking students’ curiosity, shaping futures and the pipeline of talent being delivered for the resources sector.

The QMEA marked the occasion today with a special awards event in Brisbane, recognising the schools, industry partners, students and government stakeholders who have played a part in the academy’s incredible legacy.

Launched in 2005 with 18 schools as part of the Queensland State Government’s Gateway to Industry Schools Program, the QMEA has grown into one of Australia’s most successful industry-led education initiatives, inspiring more than 65,000 students over the past 20 years.

As the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), the academy connects students with the resources industry in partnership with QRC members through hands-on science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and trade workshops which bring their classroom studies to life.

QRC Chief Executive Officer, Janette Hewson, said the QMEA’s success over the past two decades was worthy of celebration.

“The QMEA delivers something special – it integrates curriculum with real-world experiences and resource industry experts,” Ms Hewson said.

“Students walk away from a QMEA experience not only with greater STEM knowledge and trade skills, but also future career opportunities, advice and inspiration from people working in the sector,” she said.

“The connection between classroom challenges and real-world solutions is incredibly powerful, and it’s one of the reasons students from QMEA schools are twice as likely to pursue an apprenticeship in resources and more likely to enter into engineering or associated technology studies at University.”

“We know experiences like this play a pivotal role in inspiring students into joining our sector.”

Gold sponsor of the QMEA 20-year awards, BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), has been a big supporter of the QMEA from its inception in 2005.

BMA Asset President Adam Lancey said celebrating 20 years of the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy is a proud moment.

“As a foundation partner, we’ve seen firsthand the transformative impact QMEA has had on students, educators, and communities across Queensland.

“QMEA is an investment in the future of our industry and the regions we call home.

“Together we’ve built a talent pipeline that reflects the diversity, innovation, and resilience of our sector. We’re honoured to continue this journey with QMEA, shaping the next generation of engineers, tradespeople, and leaders.”