The NDY Charitable Trust is a proud sponsor of Engineering Aid Australia (EAA), a not-for-profit organisation who inspire and support Indigenous high school students to complete their studies and become professional engineers.
EAA held their Indigenous Australian Engineering Schools (IAES) program in Perth during July 2021, providing a series of opportunities for Indigenous students to learn about engineering and its importance to our communities. Participating students were also able to meet engineers and talk to them about what a career in the field might look like.
Throughout the week our Daniel Collopy, Timothy de Souza, Alex Rodger and Renee Fourie took part in several networking functions and a graduation dinner hosted at Government House by the Governor of Western Australia. They met an inquisitive and excited group of teenagers with plenty of personality and ambition (including one with their sights on a career in aerospace engineering). Our team was delighted to chat with the students at a pivotal moment in their lives and offer some guidance on how to navigate the uncertainty of finding their passion.
As Alex reflected on interfacing with the students during the week, “It is a really uplifting and fulfilling experience personally, as well as providing benefits to the students themselves.
“…EAA bring together Year 9 to 12 Indigenous students from across WA (literally from as far and wide as Esperance, Kununurra, Eastern Goldfields, as well as some from within the greater Perth Metropolitan area). They didn’t know each other when they started the week long program, and by the time they finish, they’ve made lifelong friendships among their peers and, equally important, started networking with industry sponsors, universities, and potential future employers.”
One of our favourite student comments of the week was, “You might be my future employer (if you are lucky), but I’m going to be your future boss!!!” At NDY, we love this youthful drive and ambition and encourage all future leaders to step up!
It’s a privilege to support the students and Engineering Aid Australia, and we look forward to continuing our involvement in the future.