Mackay students are gaining invaluable skills in automation technologies thanks to the Daly Bay STEM Punks Autonomous Vehicle Program, which has drawn enthusiastic participation from both Catherine McAuley College and Mackay Northern Beaches State High School.
The two-day program, hosted at the Resources Centre of Excellence, is designed to equip students with practical STEM skills that directly connect with industry needs in agriculture, mining and other emerging sectors.
Fifty students delved into advanced learning on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), coding, sensor systems, cloud data analysis and autonomous machine control, essential skills as automation continues to transform industries like mining and agriculture.
Michael Holstrom, Director of STEM Punks said the program enables students to learn new skills that have direct links with local industries in the resources and agriculture sectors.
“A core aim of the program is to inspire students to pursue future career pathways in local industries to retain talent in the region.
“We see automation as a key driver for future innovation in mining, particularly in areas such as remote operations, safety enhancements and more efficient resource extraction.”
As industries grow increasingly reliant on automation, particularly in areas like biofuels and critical minerals processing, programs such as these become crucial in ensuring that the next generation is prepared for the job market of tomorrow.
Professor Rob Brown, Associate Vice President at CQUniversity, which co-sponsored the event, praised the program.
“The STEM Punks program is a terrific way to inspire today’s school kids by using industry to link the content they study with the exciting jobs of the future.”
The skills taught in this program, such as AI, coding, and sensor system integration, align closely with the current and future needs of the mining workforce. As more mining operations turn to autonomous systems, workers will need to be adept at managing and maintaining these technologies and this program offers students an early introduction to these essential skills, setting them on a path to be future leaders in automation within the industry.
Mackay, long known as a leader in mining and sugar production, is now seeing rapid growth in biofuels and critical minerals processing, both of which heavily incorporate autonomous technologies.
There are both challenges and opportunities for students entering careers in automation within mining. One potential challenge is the rapid pace of technological advancements, which requires continuous learning and adaptability. However, the opportunities are immense, ranging from high-demand roles in system maintenance and machine operation to leadership positions in technology development. The STEM Punks program aims to address these challenges by equipping students with foundational skills and an understanding of how to navigate an industry that is always evolving.
Students were not only exposed to these advanced technologies but were also given a platform to interact directly with representatives from major industry sponsors such as Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, Central Queensland University, Mackay Manufacturing Hub and Queensland Hydro.
The program’s effectiveness was clear from the results with 97% of surveyed students reported a better understanding of autonomous systems and related career pathways.
Feedback from the students highlighted the value of hands-on learning. One student reflected that they liked the freedom they had when coming up with ideas and another said that working together in teams and creating and innovating their own stuff was a lot of fun.
Steven Boxall, CEO of the Resources Centre of Excellence, was equally enthusiastic about the program.
“We are excited to host STEM Punks for the second time at the RCOE. Students are our future, and providing opportunities like this enables them to explore the endless career opportunities that come from STEM.”