Revitalising Australian Industry

The Urgent Need for Educational Partnerships and Investment

In the heart of Australia's burgeoning defence industry, a critical skills gap is widening, threatening the future of a sector valued at $43 billion. This situation highlights an urgent need: strategically rethinking the synergies between industry, government, and educational institutions. The defence sector, especially highlighted by the high-profile AUKUS nuclear submarine program, is experiencing an acute shortage of skilled professionals. To combat this, the solution seems clear yet challenging - a substantial investment in the education of young Australians, beginning right from their early school years. Leading this pivotal change is Re-Engineering Australia (REA), a beacon of innovation and influence in STEM education since 1998. REA's programs have reached over 1.5 million students, igniting a passion for STEM and opening new career pathways. Despite their significant success, these initiatives have yet to scratch the surface in terms of receiving the support they deserve from key industry and government stakeholders.

Deepening Crisis and the Myopic Approach to Education and Industry Collaboration

The current crisis in the Australian defence sector is not just a matter of immediate concern; it is a warning sign of the long-term implications of a short-sighted approach to education and industry collaboration. The political landscape has often been marred by emphasising short-term electoral strategies, where the long-term vision for educational investment and student career development is overshadowed. This lack of foresight is broader than politics. The industrial sector, too, has played its part in this narrative. There's a prevailing attitude within many industries that education and workforce development are primarily governmental responsibilities. This perspective focuses on immediate profitability and efficiency, often at the cost of investing in the community's long-term development and future workforce.

The Solution to Engaging the Next Generation Exists.

REA's programs have shown that students are more capable than we ever imagined, and education should be more than just focusing on the three Rs. The impact of these programs is far-reaching and profound:

• Shifting Career Aspirations Towards STEM: 81% of REA participants have redirected their career goals toward STEM fields. This shift indicates the program's effectiveness in sparking student interest and motivation in these areas.
• Manufacturing as a Viable Career Path: Interestingly, about half of the students who engage with REA's programs express a keen interest in manufacturing careers. This trend highlights the success of REA in aligning student interests with critical industry needs, a vital step in addressing the current skills gap.
• Excellence on a Global Stage: Australian students have not just participated but have consistently excelled in international STEM competitions. This success is a testament to the intrinsic motivation of Australian students and REA's robust educational methodology and curriculum, which equips students with consciousness and technical knowledge and fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Comprehensive Educational Advancement: Students participating in REA's programs have noted an impressive 85% increase in educational attainment across all subject areas. This statistic underscores these initiatives' broad and far-reaching benefits, extending beyond STEM and into overall academic and personal development.
• Dismantling Gender Stereotypes in STEM: REA's programs have played a crucial role in breaking down traditionally perceived gender barriers in STEM fields. By promoting inclusivity and diversity, these programs have opened doors for a more varied and dynamic workforce.

Despite these remarkable strides, REA's efforts, particularly outside the defence sector, have received limited recognition and support from the broader industry and government sectors.

Investing in the Workforce of Tomorrow

The Australian defence sector and other industries must proactively support educational initiatives like those spearheaded by REA. The vitality and sustainability of these sectors heavily depend on a well-educated, skilled, and motivated workforce. Investing in education is not just a social responsibility; it's a strategic imperative for future growth, innovation, and global competitiveness.

Industry must recognise and actively participate in shaping educational programs that align with future workforce needs. This involvement can take various forms, from financial investments to providing practical training opportunities and mentorship. Such collaborative efforts are crucial in ensuring that the next generation of professionals is skilled but also enthusiastic and well-prepared for their roles in advancing Australia's industrial capabilities.

An invitation to Industry to See What's Possible

Between March 11th and 15th, 2024, at St. Peters College, 55 Hackney Road in Adelaide, the 2024 National Finals of F1 in Schools and SUBS in Schools will unite teams across Australia to be Australia's Best STEM students.

This event is more than a competition; it's a vibrant intersection of young talent, education, and potential. It presents a unique opportunity for industry leaders and politicians to experience education's transformative power. These bright, driven students are not merely absorbing information; they aspire to be the 'STEM Lions' of the future, at the forefront of innovation and business. The event offers an unparalleled platform for industry engagement with these young minds.

It is a chance to inspire, mentor, and witness the potential of Australia's future engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs.

www.rea.org.au