Engineering Student for a Day inspires future engineers
From renewable energy breakthroughs to robotics challenges, future engineers had the chance to experience first‑hand what their careers could look like.
The School of Engineering welcomed over 90 Year 11 students from 12 schools across the Hunter Region to Engineering Student for a Day - an immersive program designed to give high school students insight into university life and the wide range of engineering career pathways.
Across the Engineering precinct and Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER), students explored cutting-edge facilities, took part in in hands-on activities, and connected with academics, industry, and current University of Newcastle Students.
When asked what they enjoyed most about the day, one student shared:
“Getting to see all the great projects, opportunities, and experiences offered by the university.” - Great Lakes College Tuncurry Senior Campus
A Taste of Engineering
Throughout the day, students were introduced to the breadth and diversity of engineering. They explored:
- Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, including aircraft and robotics technologies
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, where they tested materials and environmental systems
- Electrical, Computer Systems and Medical Engineering, with tours of advanced laboratories
- Chemical and Renewable Energy Engineering, where they saw sustainability‑focused research in action
The program demonstrated just how dynamic, innovative, and varied an engineering future can be.
Peer-Led Experience
Students were divided into 16 groups, each led by a University of Newcastle student ambassador. Ambassadors shared their own experiences, answered questions about study pathways, and helped create a welcoming environment for participants to learn and explore.
Charlie Hickey, a Bachelor of Civil Engineering / Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours) student, said:
"Being involved in Engineering Student for a Day was very rewarding. It was great to see students in the position I was in 4 years ago and help them make their decision about university. The day allows students to explore the range of engineering disciplines and can help students discover what they are truly interested in!"
Student Voices
Participants described the program as inspiring, informative, and eye opening. Many highlighted that the practical activities and real-world demonstrations helped them understand what studying engineering involves. Students highlighted several favourite moments from the day, including:
- “Getting to see what I would do in each degree, helping me get rid of assumptions and seeing it in real life.” - Hunter School of Performing Arts
- “The robotics and stuff was sick!” - Great Lakes College Tuncurry Senior Campus
- “The practical and hands on demonstrations.” - Lambton High School
- “Watching all the different lab experiments, like the tensile test on the steel beam in civil engineering.” - Trinity Catholic College Adamstown
- "Seeing the different activities that each discipline partakes in which I had not considered they would do.” - St Francis Xavier’s College Hamilton
Looking Ahead
Events like Engineering Student for a Day reflect the University of Newcastle’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of creative, industry-ready engineers. We look forward to welcoming even more schools and students next year as we continue supporting future engineers across the region.
Related news
- Families discover hidden coastal life through hands-on science workshops
- Engineering Student for a Day inspires future engineers
- First students welcomed to University’s new Gosford Central building
- Newcastle scientist named among UNESCO Quantum Top 100
- Thousands flock to campus in anticipation of a new academic year
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.