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Brisbane students will today learn how robotics, chemistry and engineering combine in Queensland’s technologically advanced resources sector.

At the interactive ‘Beakers.Bots.Build’ workshop, the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) will challenge almost 30 Glenala State High School students’ planning, collaboration, and problem-solving skills through robotics, programming and engineering related activities.

The QMEA is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

QRC’s Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Katrina-Lee Jones said the day will increase awareness around the numerous fields of expertise required in Queensland’s resources sector, and the hands-on activities will give them a taste of the exciting careers open to them.

“With traditional mining remaining strong, it’s important that students understand the opportunities available so that Queensland has access to the skilled workforce it needs now and in the future,” Ms Jones said.

“Skills shortages are the number one concern of mining CEOs, according to a recent QRC survey, so we are on a mission to ensure students can make informed decisions about their future studies to ensure Queensland students are armed with these in-demand skills.”

Glenala State High School Principal Michelle Campbell said the QMEA workshop was a wonderful opportunity for students to collaborate with peers, focusing on the importance of teamwork when completing challenges.

“It helps with their networking, communication, and teamwork skills whilst they gain an understanding of how the classroom theory relates to the real world.”

The students will investigate the extraction of oil and gas, program a LEGO robot (an autonomous haul truck) and complete an engineering design challenge.

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.