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In a unique twist to their traditional classroom routine, students from Bundaberg and Gin Gin state high schools today geared up to embark on a thrilling “day on the job”, embracing the exciting trade skills of the resource sector, at Tradies for a Day delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

Thanks to support from Evolution Mining, about 20 industrious Year 10 students will spend today immersing themselves in a variety of trade-based activities at the popular workshop designed by the QMEA, the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

QRC Director of Skills, Education, and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said this innovative experience gives students a glimpse into the exciting prospects that come with a possible career in the resource and energy industry.

“Under the guidance of experienced apprentices and tradespeople from Evolution Mining, these aspiring young men and women are getting the chance to sample different trade activities in a safe and familiar classroom environment,” Ms Jones said.

“There is an abundance of rewarding career opportunities in the mining sector, and educational experiences like our Tradies for a Day program helps the next generation make informed decisions about their subject selection for Years 11 and 12.”

Evolution Mining Mt Rawdon General Manager, Joe Mammen said interactive engagements like this help demonstrate the exciting possibility of pursuing vocational qualifications alongside conventional educational pathways.

“At Evolution, we’re passionate about nurturing the aspirations of people in our communities, fostering sustainable employment options for them,” Joe said.

“Currently, the mining industry is in dire need of skilled professionals such as auto electricians, diesel fitters, boilermakers, and mechanical fitters, just to name a few. We hope today’s activities will spark the interest of students to consider a trade-based career, either in the wider resources sector or locally with Evolution Mining’s Mt Rawdon mine.”

Bundaberg State High School Principal, Mr Chris Gill said Tradies for a Day is always a crowd favourite among the Year 10 cohort.

“We know not every student will pursue tertiary academic career paths, and this program sheds light on the technically oriented trade roles available in their hometown,” Mr. Gill said.

“By showcasing the strong correlation between the school curriculum and these dynamic hands-on careers, students can gain a profound understanding of how they can forge their own extraordinary paths.”

“With their eyes on the future as they prepare for the final years of senior school, these aspiring bright minds will be poised to unlock their trade career potential, equipped with the invaluable insights gained from today’s QMEA workshop.”

As Australia’s largest and most successful industry-led education and schools 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 91 schools and is a partnership between the QRC and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.