Graduates create a winning team for sustainability

CQUniversity graduates are helping to build a sustainable future for regional Queensland with Emerald-based environmental management company 4T Consultants.

Since 2018, 4T Consultants has employed more than eight CQU graduates in science-based roles, facilitating a future workforce in environmental consultancy, building industry-relevant skills, and encouraging innovation.

Environmental Scientist Fiona Moloney established a rewarding career in consultancy after securing a position at 4T Consultants while completing a Bachelor of Environmental Science at CQU.

“CQUniversity graduates are the perfect employees to work in Central Queensland. They understand this region, and they are committed to seeing it grow. I was inspired to study at CQUniversity as it allowed me to study from my home in Emerald,” Mrs Moloney said.

“My CQU education allowed me to get into this field, but it also taught me how to research, apply knowledge, write reports—which I do every day—and think like a scientist.

“I love understanding how things work, with the environment being one of the biggest and most complex networks to understand.”

After more than a decade in the industry, Mrs Moloney is establishing herself as a leader, becoming a shareholder and Director at 4T Consultants.

“I find every day rewarding. We get to apply scientific knowledge to real problems and find solutions,” Mrs Moloney said.

“I now also get to give back by mentoring our new employees. It allows me to share my passion and even give the odd completely nerdy and detailed answer.”

4T Consultants Director and CEO Bronwyn Reid said CQU’s ability to create job-ready graduates was a testament to the University’s learning and teaching.

“CQU graduates have been valuable contributors to 4T’s success. Their education has equipped them with a strong balance of academic knowledge and practical skills, which aligns perfectly with our needs in environmental consultancy,” Mrs Reid said.

“Programs that integrate emerging technologies, such as drone operations and data analytics, are especially valuable in preparing students for the evolving demands of our industry. Their ability to adapt and innovate has been key to our efforts in areas like groundwater monitoring, drone water sampling, and environmental compliance.

“I see CQU producing professionals who are not just employees but change-makers in sustainability and resource management.

“They are prepared to tackle the challenges of fieldwork, data analysis, and client engagement. In fact, CQU graduates are our preferred hires because of their regional roots, adaptability, and readiness to contribute immediately.”

Mrs Reid has had a long association with CQUniversity as a Master of Business Administration (Leadership) student, former member of the Rockhampton Regional Engagement Committee, and current member of the Ceremonial and Honorary Awards Committee.

“Over the years, my connection with the university has deepened. I transitioned from being a student to a part-time lecturer and have since engaged in roles on committees,” she said.

“These roles have allowed me to give back to the university community while staying closely aligned with its mission of empowering students and fostering regional development.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of working with graduates is seeing their personal and professional growth. Many join us as eager, newly qualified scientists and go on to become leaders in the field.

“CQU graduates bring fresh perspectives, technical skills, and a strong understanding of regional environmental challenges to our workplace—all of which are vital to advancing our sustainability goals.”

This commitment to sustainability was recently recognised at The Australian Business Awards 2024, with 4T Consultants named an ABA100® Winner for Business Sustainability.

“Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of 4T’s operations—from the way we collect data in the field to our energy-efficient office practices and focus on reducing waste,” Mrs Reid said.

“Winning a national award for business sustainability is a profound recognition of our team's culture and dedication to balancing environmental responsibility with business excellence.

“It underscores the value of our efforts to innovate and lead in a way that respects and enhances the natural resources we depend on. It also highlights how regional businesses like ours can make a significant national impact—especially when we have followed some corporate giants as winners of this award.”