Bowen State High School students will trade their tablets for toolkits today when they get a hands-on taste of trade careers.

Tradies from the Abbot Point Operations will mentor the students in the activities run by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

Abbot Point Operations CEO, Dwayne Freeman said there was a critical shortage of people with trade skills.

“It’s important for students to be exposed to this rewarding career choice and understand what it takes to transition from school into a career pathway,” he said.

“Mentoring by our tradies will give them a realistic look at the skills involved and what it takes to become a skilled tradie.”

“We’re delighted that our students have this opportunity to test their interest in and aptitude for trade careers,” said Bowen State High School Principal Pamela Pritchard.

“It also helps students put into context their classroom learning, which can be a powerful learning aid.”