Two engineering students from The University of Queensland have each received $40,000 after being awarded scholarships from the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and UQ.
Former Mackay North State High School student Dylan Wedel and former Brisbane Grammar School student Alistair Roe will each receive $10,000 a year for the duration of their four-year programs.
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology (EAIT), Professor Graham Schaffer said the co-funded scholarships provide a fantastic platform for students to network with industry.
“Students who receive the joint QRC and UQ scholarships also have the opportunity to join the QRC Scholarship Student Ambassador Program which provides students with access to
industry events and conferences,” Professor Schaffer said.
“These events are a great way for students to establish networks with industry, which will undoubtedly benefit them upon graduation.”
Both students will receive $6,000 through the Dean’s Excellence Program and $4,000 from QRC annually to help cover academic costs.
Acting Chief Executive of QRC Greg Lane said the organisation were pleased to be able to assist students through their tertiary education.
“It is important to safeguard the future of the resources sector by supporting future engineers while they are still at university,” Mr Lane said.
“Young engineers will have a key role in the pioneering of next generation technology in mining and energy operations for greater efficiency, improved environmental management and health and safety standards.”
Mr Wedel is a dual degree mining engineering and geology student, and said the scholarship would remove some of the financial burden incurred throughout the course of his studies.
“The scholarship provides me with opportunities to attend industry based seminars, conferences and dinners,” Mr Wedel said.
“These functions enhance my knowledge in the resources sector as well as increase my industry networks.
“The networks I have built up over the year are already assisting me with gaining vacation work, which wouldn't have been the case without the help of QRC, who I would like to thank very much.”
Media: Madelene Flanagan (07 3365 8525, m.flanagan@uq.edu.au)
