Click here for photos.

Science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), trades and careers were on show for Middlemount students this week at a Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) workshop delivered in partnership with Anglo American.

The Year 10 students spent half the day in the science laboratory conducting experiments before switching to the trades workshop to explore practical skills with industry experts from Anglo American’s local mine.

Middlemount Community School principal, Sarah Quinn said the combination of science and trades gave students a clear line of sight from learning in the classroom to a career after school.

“The Year 10 students are at a point in their studies where they have to make a major decision about whether to take an academic or vocational pathway for their senior studies,” said Mrs Quinn.

“Experiences like the STEM and trades workshop are incredibly valuable in helping them to make their decision.”

Kate du Preez, Head of Sustainability & Corporate Affairs at Anglo American said they were proud to sponsor the popular workshop.

“It is an opportunity to not only share skills but also career stories and open the door to the potential roles these students could have in the resources sector,” Ms du Preez said.

“There is an ongoing demand for the steelmaking coal produced at Anglo American, and we are keen to excite the next generation about the rewarding careers in the resources sector – in professions like engineering and the trades.”

The QMEA is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Katrina-Lee Jones, said the STEM and Trades program had been developed to complement the Australian curriculum.

“The students immersed themselves in the workshop, from virtual welding to water filtration experiments,” said Ms Jones.

“Across the day they were challenged to use their critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills – all qualities they will need in the workforce.”

For more information about potential careers in the resources sector, visit shapeyourfuture.com.au