Engineering students thrive thanks to Civil Geotechnical Consultants scholarships
By Greg Chapman
Engineering students Aidan Queale, Chris Van Mello and Christian Cartwright are forging new paths in their studies thanks to scholarships from new CQUniversity donor Civil Geotechnical Consultants (CGC).
CGC provides geotechnical expertise for critical transport, energy and civil infrastructure projects across Australia, but they are also a social enterprise and the first engineering firm in Australia to become one.
Each of the students will receive $5,000 per year for two years through the CQUniCares CGC Engineering Scholarship to support them during their studies.
Eighteen-year-old Chris of Rockhampton, is studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours). He said the scholarship would support him and his father.
“I plan to give some of the money to my father to repay him for funding my university classes in 2024,” Chris said.
As well as putting the scholarship funds towards his university fees, he said he would also donate some money to the Leukaemia Foundation and the Childhood Dementia Initiative, to support friends and family members who have struggled with these conditions throughout their lives.
“I have always been interested in analytical processing, constantly wanting to further my knowledge and skills, and designing and building machines and projects to help those around me,” he said.
“I was diagnosed with autism (ASD) at the age of four, which gave me a talent for mathematics and science, resulting in me receiving the School Dux award at Lighthouse Christian School in 2023.
“However, I have consequently struggled to communicate and express myself to those around me throughout my life. I chose to pursue engineering as a career for both these reasons: to further my interests and skills in mathematics and science, and improve my communication and cooperation skills by working with colleagues and other engineers.”
Fellow Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) student Aidan Queale of Bundaberg, also experienced many hardships during his life, including the impacts of substance abuse, and said the scholarship would alleviate the financial impacts of pursuing his degree.
In February 2023, Aidan completed CQU’s Skills for Tertiary Entry Preparation Studies (STEPS) earning high distinctions and the confidence to enrol in the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree, commencing in March of this year.
“So far, I have continued to excel, earning high distinctions in all enrolled subjects including Materials for Engineers, Fundamentals of Sustainable Energy and Engineering Statics. These accomplishments not only reflect my academic capabilities but also my passion for engineering and my commitment to making a change in the world we live,” he said.
“Beyond financial support, receiving this scholarship is recognition of my resilience and determination to overcome adversity. It also inspires me to give back to the community, particularly mentoring young individuals who, like me, may have faced or be facing significant challenges, although possess great potential.”
CGC has also supported Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) student Christian Cartwright, who recently visited Bravus Mining and Resources’ Carmichael Mine.
CGC Finance and Governance Lead Holly Carson said CGC has funded these scholarships with CQU “to support high potential students who have overcome adversity to further their education.”
“The recipients of these scholarships are an inspiration, overcoming significant challenges to excel in their engineering studies,” she said.
“We are honoured to sponsor these scholarships, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for Christian, Aiden and Chris!”
Through their connection with CQUniversity, CGC also sponsored the 2025 Horizon Hydrogen Grand Prix, a program where high school students design, build, and race hydrogen-powered remote-controlled cars.
