Backing the Hunter’s future female STEM talent

Building a strong and diverse future workforce starts with creating opportunities for the next generation. Through its Empowering Women in STEM Scholarship, Downer is supporting women to build their skills, confidence and connections as they prepare for careers in STEM.

Downer’s Empowering Women in STEM Scholarship is helping students at the University of Newcastle build the skills, confidence and industry connections to pursue careers in STEM.

STEM skills will play an important role in Australia’s future workforce, particularly as the energy and utilities sectors continue to evolve.

The scholarship supports women studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics, providing financial assistance as well as opportunities to connect with industry and participate in professional development at Downer.

For Nikki Hankin, who has just completed her final year of a Bachelor of Civil Engineering degree,  the support has helped her balance work and study as a mature-age student.

“The financial support that the Downer scholarship provides was definitely a big help in getting me set-up as a mature-age student. It was an opportunity I wouldn’t have got otherwise.”

Nikki says the experience has helped her build confidence in her studies and her future career.

“Now I feel I’ve gained the skills and I have the support all around me to advocate for myself and feel confident in what is still predominantly a male-dominated field.”

The partnership also builds on Downer’s more than 100-year connection to the Hunter, supporting local talent and developing skills that will help meet the region’s changing workforce needs.

Loretta Maslen, Acting Senior Manager Education & Innovation in the College of Engineering, Science and Environment at the University of Newcastle said the benefits extend beyond financial support.

“The scholarship is an amazing opportunity for students to engage with industry and with their local region, make connections for their future career aspirations and really see the value of what they can put back into the region.”

By creating stronger connections between education and industry, the scholarship is helping more women see a future for themselves in STEM and supporting the skilled, diverse workforce Australia will need for the future.