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Indigenous summer school for budding engineers

29 November 2007

Indigenous students across Australia are invited to a unique summer school in Newcastle in January 2008 to gain a hands-on understanding of a career in engineering.

University of Newcastle, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Kevin McConkey, said the innovative program aimed to help redress the under-representation of Indigenous Australians in the engineering profession.

"Engineers are in demand for infrastructure development across Australia. From our cities to our remote regions, engineers contribute to the development of a range of infrastructure including roads, hospitals, schools and communication networks.

"There is a great opportunity for more Indigenous Australians to guide and participate in the development of infrastructure across all industries and regions."

Open to students entering year 11 or 12 in 2008, the Indigenous Australian Engineering Summer School offers 20 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of engineering for eight days.

"Meeting engineers, participating in design work and observing projects in action will offer students a real insight into this booming field of work and help them decide if engineering is a good career choice for them."

Hosted by the University of Newcastle, the eight-day Indigenous Australian Engineering Summer School is sponsored by engineering companies, government departments and private donors. All costs for students are covered by the Summer School, except for pocket money while students are travelling and during their stay in Newcastle.

The Indigenous Australian Engineering Summer School is an annual event, established in 1999 by Engineering Aid. In 2008, the University of Newcastle will host the Summer School from 12 - 19 January.

The application deadline for the Indigenous Australian Engineering Summer School has been extended until 3 December 2007.

For more information and the application form go to www.newcastle.edu.au/iaess or call Angela Henderson, Partnerships and International Officer, on 02 4921 7840.

For interviews contact Kate Robinson on 02 4921 5061.