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Thiess leads STEM education

Thiess has partnered with the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) to help deliver the first-ever STEM Proud Robotics competition in the Whitsundays.


 
Students from grade four to six from Scottville State Primary School, Collinsville State School and St John Bosco Catholic Primary programmed LEGO EV3 Mindstorms robots through a series of mining and agricultural challenges.
The competition, which was won by Scottville State Primary School, focused on building STEM education by showcasing to the students STEM-based career opportunities.
Special guest and leader in digital technology education Dr Damien Kee addressed the students and shared his insights on coding, robotics, programming and electronics.
Thiess graduates from QCoal Northern Hub, Daniel Thomis, Jacob Browne and Jamie Perrott, helped guide students through the challenges and provided valuable industry insights.
The competition wrapped up the Whitsundays STEM Proud program which focused on building the skills and capabilities of teachers and students in the region.
Thiess Health, Safety and Training Manager Brett Herrington said the program helps demonstrate to students the education pathways that lead to jobs in the mining sector.
“As a business focused on technology and innovation, we recognise that an increased emphasis on STEM education is critical for the future”.
“Enhancing STEM capabilities will provide a bridge to new jobs, new skills and help deliver sustainable growth in the Collinsville and Scottville communities.”
Thiess is continuing its commitment to STEM development in the Bowen Basin and has recently donated 24 LEGO EV3 Mindstorms Robotic Kits to local schools.