Funding for RDA Hunter's Me Program
Regional Development Australia (RDA) Hunter welcomes the recent announcement by Minister for Defence Industry, The Hon. Steven Ciobo MP of a further funding commitment for the ME program for 2018/19. This will enable RDA Hunter’s partnership with the Department of Defence to help build a STEM-skilled defence industry workforce to continue.
Delivered in close partnership with the Australian Department of Defence, Hunter industry and local high schools since 2009, the ME program is upskilling, growing and diversifying the Hunter’s workforce – particularly in support of the region’s defence industry.
RDA Hunter’s Schools Pathways program facilitates formal partnerships between industry and high schools to make curriculum industry-relevant; increase student awareness of STEM career pathways; and increase the number of students studying STEM in readiness for jobs that defence industry requires.
The ME program’s suite of activities includes:
- STEM-Ex work experience program;
- STEM in Defence + Innovation entrepreneurship initiative;
- and iSTEM - a state-of-the-art Stage 5 school subject incorporating mechatronics, aerodynamics, engineering, 3D CAD/CAM and aerospace modules which is being taught in 260 schools across NSW.
The ME Program is also diversifying the cohort studying STEM with programs like Tech Girls are SuperHeroes and Sheflies, while promoting defence sector job opportunities such as the Women in Aviation conference.
With Australian Government commitment to improving defence capabilities, skilled people in a range of defence and defence industry roles in the Hunter will be needed for the foreseeable future. The latest funding grant for RDA Hunter’s ME Program ensures continuity for life-stage specific, industry-led schools programs that contribute to a future workforce that is skilled, job-ready and home-grown.
For more information contact RDA Hunter’s STEM Workforce Manager, Rick Evans on 0434 489 609
Visit www.meprogram.com.au
View Minister Ciobo’s announcement