The federal government says it has partnered with CSIRO to deliver an exciting new opportunity for students interested in gaining exposure to the high-tech, cutting-edge world of defence industry.
The Defence Industry Virtual Work Experience Program offers real-world work experience to secondary school students interested in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
CSIRO will work with Defence and defence industry to deliver the program, based off their own successful program of virtual work experience for STEM-based learning.
Students will be partnered with like-minded students across Australia to work on an inspiring STEM project, supervised and mentored directly by leading professionals working in defence industry, all in a secure online environment.
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said investment in school-based programs was crucial to building a pipeline of future talent and creating awareness of the great careers in defence industry.
“This program will deliver a valuable opportunity to 330 students across three years, with a pilot program of 30 students to start in early 2022,” Minister Price said.
“The fantastic thing about this program is that it is available to students from all parts of the country, whether they’re in Karratha, Cairns or anywhere in between.
“An appropriately skilled and STEM-enabled workforce is fundamental for defence industry to build and develop a robust, resilient and internationally competitive Australian defence industrial base.
“This program is aimed at school students interested in STEM and is designed to create a sustainable pipeline of talent by engaging people across the education spectrum.
“It also presents an opportunity for defence-industry businesses to showcase the breadth of opportunity that exists within the sector within a structured and secure environment.”
