CQU and CSIRO drive energy innovation with masterclass and networking event

31 March 2025

Paul Hodgson speaking at networking event with RUIC banner behind.JPG — CQU's Paul Hodgson presenting at the recent networking event in Rockhampton

CQUniversity and CSIRO recently hosted the Energy Transition Networking Evening, a landmark event celebrating the successful completion of the Industry Engagement Masterclass.

This initiative, part of the Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) Program, aims to bridge the gap between research and industry by fostering collaboration and innovation.

The RUIC Program, funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by CSIRO, provided 17 researchers from CQUniversity’s Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy with a six-week intensive training program on industry engagement.

Participants developed essential skills to partner with businesses, communicate their research effectively, and explore real-world applications of their work.

The networking event, held at the Bird Cage Bar and Lounge on CQUniversity’s Rockhampton North Campus, brought together key industry stakeholders from organisations such as Stanwell Corporation, Powerlink, Fortescue and Capricorn Enterprise.

Distinguished guests included Queensland’s Chief Scientist, Professor Kerrie Wilson, alongside senior representatives from CQUniversity’s Research Division.

Chief scientist with stakeholders at networking event with banners behind them.JPG — Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson (centre) with stakeholder representatives at the networking event

“We had an amazing time at the Energy Transition Networking Evening,” said Paul Hodgson, Director of the Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy and Executive Director of Regional Futures – Energy Transitions.

“It was fantastic to see so many industry leaders, researchers and innovators come together to share ideas and spark new collaborations.”

“The energy and enthusiasm in the room were truly inspiring, and we're excited to see the innovative projects that will come out of these connections.”

Researcher Jahirul Islam with Professor Rabin Tuladhar at the networking event.JPG — Plastics-to-fuel researcher Dr Jahirul Islam with Professor Rabin Tuladhar, Dean of CQU's School of Engineering and Technology, at the networking event

While it is still early to gauge the full impact of the program, the event provided an invaluable opportunity for researchers to showcase their expertise and for industry representatives to engage with CQUniversity’s cutting-edge research.

The initiative will continue annually for the next two years as part of the RUIC program, reinforcing its role in driving Queensland’s energy transition efforts.