Last week, our Tamworth laboratory proudly sponsored the University of Newcastle’s The Science and Engineering Challenge 2024, an event held at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre (TRECC) and hosted by the Rotary Club of Tamworth – First Light. The event spanned from Tuesday to Friday and saw over 1000 students engage in thrilling STEM challenges.
At the heart of our involvement is a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers. For over a decade, we’ve been sponsors and volunteers at this event, striving to inspire young minds and encourage them to explore careers in science and engineering.
The Science and Engineering Challenge is a renowned nationwide program designed to provide primary and high school students with hands-on experience in science and engineering. It aims to ignite their passion for these fields while opening their eyes to the myriad of career opportunities they offer. Our Environmental and Agricultural Manager, Stephanie Cameron, eagerly anticipates this event each year. She shares, “Supporting kids from primary to high school to immerse themselves in STEM activities is very inspiring. Watching the next generation of really smart and innovative scientists makes me excited for our future as a soils lab in regional Australia.”
Stephanie’s enthusiasm reflects our belief that investing in STEM education is crucial for the future of our industry and our community. As a soils lab based in regional Australia, we recognise the importance of cultivating local talent and providing opportunities for young people to pursue careers in science and engineering.
The event featured a range of challenges, from building wind turbines to exploring electricity principles, all designed to foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork. Our team actively participated in facilitating these activities, guiding students through their projects and offering insights into the practical applications of STEM concepts.
One of the highlights of the event was witnessing the students’ enthusiasm and ingenuity as they tackled each challenge with determination and creativity. It was evident that the experience left a lasting impression on many of them, sparking an interest in pursuing further studies and careers in STEM fields.
As we reflect on this year’s challenge, we extend our gratitude to everyone involved, from the organisers and volunteers to the students who enthusiastically participated. We are already looking forward to next year’s event, eager to continue our support for STEM education and the bright young minds shaping the future of science and engineering.
In the accompanying images, you can see Stephanie Cameron hosting the electricity station, Matt Grinter hosting the wind turbine station, and the judging panel overseeing the exciting challenges unfold. Their dedication and passion exemplify our ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation through STEM education.
