Gippsland Water partners with FedUni to support women in STEM
Gippsland Water has partnered with Federation University Australia to offer scholarships to local female students worth up to $9000 each.
The Gippsland Water Scholarship offers Gippsland-based women studying engineering or science degrees at Federation University’s Gippsland campus $3000 per year for the first three years of their course to help with their studies. Up to two new Gippsland Water Scholarships will be offered per year.
Managing director Sarah Cumming said she hoped the scholarships would help each recipient to focus on their studies and get the most out of their degree, so they could confidently pursue a career in their chosen field while remaining in Gippsland.
“We know that women are underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) careers,” Ms Cumming said.
“Encouraging local women and girls to pursue careers in STEM is something we’re really passionate about.
“These scholarships are about providing that pathway from secondary school, through university, to a rewarding career in engineering or science.”
Ms Cumming conceded that achieving a gender balance in STEM careers will take time, but initiatives like this one could help begin to bridge the gap.
“We want to help more women achieve fulfilling careers in STEM, right here in Gippsland, including through opportunities at Gippsland Water.”
The recipients are also likely to be given the opportunity to participate in Gippsland Water’s summer vacation program – a paid, 12-week employment term that gives the students hands-on experience in their area of interest within the organisation.
Federation University Gippsland Head of Campus Leigh Kennedy said it was wonderful to work with Gippsland Water to support tomorrow’s scientists and engineers.
“We know that the majority of students who study locally, go on to live and work locally,” Ms Kennedy said.
“This partnership to support young Gippsland women into STEM education means that local female students can get financial support to study, and importantly have a strong connection to Gippsland Water for on-the-job experience and work placement.”
Two scholarships will be advertised to female Gippsland-based engineering or science students starting their degree at FedUni’s Gippsland campus in 2022.
Applications open 17 January and close 4 March 2022.
Students can find out more and apply for the Gippsland Water Scholarship at https://federation.edu.au/gippsland-water-scholarship
