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Exciting, hands-on activities at a Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) workshop on Wednesday (18 May) have revealed the ‘hidden depths’ of career opportunities in the resources sector, thanks to Anglo American.

Around 20 students from Moura State High School further developed their science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) knowledge at a workshop hosted by the QMEA, which is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said Grade 10 students extracted some resourceful skills thanks to the guidance of Anglo American representatives at the STEM Unearthed workshop.

“This popular workshop aims to encourage the next generation to continue pursuing excellence in STEM subjects, particularly as they enter the final years of their secondary school journey,” Ms Jones said.

“There is no shortage of opportunities in the resources industry for professionals with a strong STEM background, and this workshop helped students connect their classroom learning to real-world applications in an advanced and innovative sector”.

General Manager of Anglo American’s Dawson Mine, Clarence Robertson, said students were able to gain an insight into the future of mining and the skills required.

“We’re committed to regional skills development, including in STEM areas, and working with students to help them learn about the type of roles that will be necessary to support the future of mining.

“It was great to have representatives from our Dawson Mine at the workshop, not only guiding the students through interesting challenges including extracting valuable minerals from rocks and planning a mini mine, but also providing first-hand feedback on what a rewarding career in the resources sector can deliver.”

Moura State High School Deputy Principal, Ms Halena Hall said the workshop was a creative and exciting forum to show students the important role STEM subjects play in their education or training pathway after school.

“Students often wonder how their classroom learning will translate to life after they leave school, and the activities from Wednesday helped them develop their education and professional skills,” Ms Hall said.

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.