The Queensland Resources Council and CQUniversity Australia are offering two scholarships in 2011 for first-year engineering and environmental science students valued at $10,000 per annum for the duration of their full-time degree.
Students will be selected based on their ambition to work in the resources sector, as well as academic achievements and leadership qualities.
In addition to receiving financial assistance, the students will be invited to join the QRC Scholarship Student Ambassador Program.
The program, which currently supports 23 students across Queensland, offers recipients invitations to industry conferences, seminars and networking events, assistance with securing vacation work, and opportunities to share their experiences with other young people online.
The 2010 recipients of the CQUniversity-QRC Scholarship, Daniel Gardner and Samuel Eborn, say they are excited by the opportunities offered in the mining industry.
“From growing up in Mackay, I have been lucky enough to witness firsthand the impact the mining boom has had on the region,’ said Gardner, who plans to specialise in mechanical engineering.
“While at uni, I look forward to gaining some practical experience and becoming part of such a rapidly growing industry.
“In the future I can see myself working on massive projects at minesites all over the country.”
QRC chief executive Michael Roche said the scholarship would open many doors for students with an interest in pursuing a long-term and fulfilling career in Queensland’s minerals and energy sector.
“The industry offers so many exciting opportunities for enthusiastic, motivated and talented individuals,” he said.
“The scholarships will ensure students can make the most of the many opportunities available in the sector while they are still at university to ensure they are heading in the right direction.”
CQUniversity Australia vice-chancellor and president Scott Bowman said the university’s engagement with the QRC benefited industry, students and the community equally.
“QRC’s generous investment and this level of partnership, the hallmark of CQUniversity, ensures that central Queensland students are exposed to the best industry has to offer, now and for the long term, right here in our own local communities,” he said.
The scholarships are open to students who completed year 12 or had a gap year in 2010.
Applicants must have an Overall Position (OP) 5 or better and be full-time students entering their first year of a Bachelor of Engineering (electrical, mechanical, civil, mining) or a Bachelor of Environmental Science at CQUniversity in 2011.
