New scholarship takes aspiring engineer from classroom to coal mines
Katie Windsor is engineering a bright future at CQUniversity, combining hands-on experience with textbook knowledge to build a career in the mining industry.
The Gladstone local is currently completing her Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Diploma of Professional Practice (Co-op Engineering) which includes extensive work-integrated learning opportunities with paid work placement and project-based learning.
Katie said this unique approach had not only enhanced her education, but also prepared her for real-world challenges in the field.
"CQU offered the Co-op engineering program locally, which has presented me with some incredible opportunities for work placement while studying,” she said.
“They have a high interest and commitment to learning through experience and team projects, which drives my passion for engineering even further."
Katie said since enrolling in the program, her engineering aptitude continued to grow, which first stemmed from an interest in physics and mathematics during high school.
"At around Year 10 I first discovered my love for these subjects and started exploring the different possibilities that Science, Technology, Education and Mathematics (STEM) had to offer," she said.
"I was fortunate to have a caring and brilliant teacher, Miss Reeja Mathews, who recognised my enthusiasm for creating and building. She encouraged me to apply for various STEM and engineering programs with female mentors, peers and leaders.”
While being a woman in a male-dominated industry has its challenges, Katie said it had only encouraged her to make connections, learn, experience and discover the kind of engineer she aspired to be.
"I am the only female in the class with all male teachers and lecturers at the Gladstone campus,” Katie said.
“But I have learnt not to be discouraged and take every opportunity that comes my way. There are incredibly inspiring women in the industry who offer their guidance and assistance.
Katie was the recipient of the inaugural CQUniCares Jellinbah Founder Engineering Scholarship which provides recognition and financial assistance to a student studying an undergraduate degree in engineering, engineering technology, environmental science or science.
“We are thrilled to welcome Katie as our first CQUniCares Jellinbah Founder Engineering Scholarship recipient,” Manager of Employee and Community Relations at Jellinbah Mine, Tania Fitzgerald said.
As part of the scholarship, the Jellinbah Group provides six weeks per year of paid work placement at one of the mine sites in the Bowen Basin.
“Jellinbah's scholarship provides both funding and experience. Both of these are invaluable as I continue my study to become a credible engineer,” Katie said.
“The additional work experience it offers is my first opportunity to develop engineering skills and connections in the mining industry. I am able to work with skilled engineers and gain the experience that is imperative for me to grow and develop.
"The highlights so far have definitely been the involvement with the local industries.
"Being able to visit and even work with and for companies, to experience their responsibilities and challenges as engineers has provided me with the most valuable guidance going forward."
Katie said that as she progresses through her new career in engineering, she hopes to be a champion for other young women interested in entering the rewarding industry.
“Long-term, I aim to have a career that offers me daily challenges, excitement, stability and growth,” Katie explained.
“When you study engineering there is so much opportunity in different industries and areas you can work in.
"After completing my studies, I hope to explore the mining industry and learn more about the projects of engineers in such fast-paced and high-stake environments.”
The CQUniCares Scholarship program changes lives and CQU is grateful to partner with Jellinbah Group who share the University’s passion for making a difference in the lives of our students, their families and our communities.
