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Gladstone students may very well be the resources industry’s future science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) superstars following a workshop delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA), the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

Thanks to support from ConocoPhillips Australia, as downstream operator of Australia Pacific LNG (APLNG), about 35 Grade 9 students from Chanel College, and Calliope, Tannum Sands, Toolooa and Gladstone state high schools are today working in teams to complete a series of exciting, hands-on activities linked to the National Science Curriculum.

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said under the guidance of representatives from APLNG, students are getting the opportunity to bolster their STEM skills while exploring the different career pathways on offer in the resources sector.

“Today kicked off with a scavenger hunt where students searched around the classroom for clues connecting mineral resources with their use in everyday products,” Ms Jones said.

“This activity is a great way for the students to learn about the importance of the resources and energy sector, while also further developing their collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”

ConocoPhillips Australia’s Manager Communities and Sustainable Development, Mr Robert Gibb said APLNG’s partnership with the QMEA is all about encouraging the next generation to pursue tertiary pathways to a rewarding career in resources and energy.

“ConocoPhillips Australia, as the downstream operator of APLNG, is a proud supporter of QMEA’s STEM in School programs. This particular event is an opportunity for students to connect with real-world industry professionals and understand the career possibilities within the energy and resources sector,” Mr Gibb said.

“These presentations and activities are an invaluable opportunity for students to focus on collaboration, planning, continuous improvement, and problem solving as they prepare for their future careers”.

Chanel College Principal, Dr Susan Bunkum said the students gained work and life experience throughout the workshop, which is critically important for helping them prepare for life after school.

“The day will conclude with careers discussion hosted by four representatives from across APLNG. Here they will discuss the journey to their own career pathways,” Dr Bunkum said.

“The activities from this session allows the students to connect what they have learnt in the classroom to jobs in local industry that’s been part of Gladstone’s community for more than 150 years.”

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 90 schools and is a partnership between the QRC and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.