SMW Group are proud to announce their new scholarship program, in partnership with CQUniversity and in support of Central Queenslanders learning hands-on skills in mining and manufacturing.

The scholarship, which awards two Certificate II in Engineering Pathways students with $2,500 to help with their studies, is designed to encourage regional women and Indigenous talent to choose a career that keeps them local. 

As one of the region’s biggest employers of trade apprentices, SMW Group realises the potential in our school-leavers. Unfortunately, every year this promising talent leaves the region once formal schooling is finished. SMW Group Chief People and Culture Officer Riley Boland says there’s more that we can do about it.

“By connecting industry businesses like SMW Group with promising talent at the Certificate II level, we can identify our future workforce early and give them incentives to choose a career that keeps them regional.”

“As a CQUni graduate and someone who’s worked my way up through the ranks in a regional business, I know the value of ‘getting in on the ground floor’, and I’d love to see more talent doing just that,” said Mr Boland.

CQUniversity was a natural partner of choice for SMW Group to offer a scholarship, given the company’s strong ties to both Rockhampton and Mackay, where the university has a strong trade, manufacturing and mining presence.

CQUniversity Deputy Director Philanthropy Francois Gallais says the addition of another local CQ business scholarship to the CQUniCares cohort is an exciting reflection of progress.

“Having SMW Group supporting students at CQUniversity is another fantastic example of how our university is continually working towards the goal of being the most engaged and connected university in Australia. Additionally, supporting students at the VET level demonstrates the many pathways students can take towards a qualification and along-term career with CQUni.”

The SMW Group CQUniCares scholarship is accepting applications now and closes on 30 January. Apply via cqu.edu.au/scholarships

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