Click here for photos from the Moura Oresome Trades Camp.

Hands on trade projects and connections with Dawson Mine employees have given a group of students from Moura and Biloela a stronger understanding of where a trade career can take them this week.

Eleven senior students from Moura State High School, Biloela State High School and Redeemer Lutheran College have taken part in a three-day Oresome Trades Camp, delivered by the QMEA Resources Skills Academy in partnership with Anglo American.

Moura State High School hosted the camp, with principal Vanessa Moller saying the camp connected students’ school-based training with industry skills and local career pathways.

“This camp helps students see how the trade skills they are learning at school can open the door to real jobs and rewarding careers in the resources sector,” Ms Moller said.

During the camp, students worked in groups to design, build and test a model mine site vehicle, applying mechanical, metalwork and auto-electrical skills.

Tradespeople from Dawson Mine joined students for the camp, sharing their industry knowledge and career experience.

Dawson Mine general manager, Matt Stevens, said the camp gave local students a clearer picture of the career opportunities available close to home and the trade skills needed to secure those roles.

“This camp has given students a chance to better understand the pathways into trades and given them greater confidence in applying for apprenticeships,” Mr Stevens said.

“They were able to chat with our tradespeople, ask questions and hear first-hand about their career experiences while they were working on their trade projects together.  Those conversations are really valuable when students are deciding on their direction after school.”

Anglo American has been an industry partner of the QMEA Resources Skills Academy since it began in 2005.

“We are proud to be foundation partners of the QMEA as we believe programs like this give students valuable exposure to the industry in their own backyard and it’s a great way for us to connect and hopefully inspire them as they consider their career options,” Mr Stevens said.

For more information about trade careers in the resources sector visit shapeourfuture.com.au