Learning skills of the future

St Columban’s College Caboolture is among 27 secondary schools preparing to shape the future of the hydrogen industry in Queensland, which is expected to grow by $19 billion by 2040.

The college is part of the Hydrogen Gateway to Industry Schools program, being delivered by Energy Skills Queensland.

Students will be exposed to a range of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) learning experiences from engineering to distribution and exporting, providing the students with hydrogen career pathway opportunities.

“Students will learn skills of the future,” St Columban’s College Caboolture Principal Michael Connolly says.

“Australia is experiencing a significant shift in the implementation of environmentally sustainable practices, evoking discussion around the need to educate graduates who are equipped with an understanding of renewable energy sources, such as green hydrogen.

|“We don’t know what industries will exist in the future, so it’s important we stay ahead of the curve and take that leap of faith when innovative programs like this arise.|

“Looking towards the future, it is clear there will be great demand for jobs within the hydrogen energy sector, and we want to ensure our graduates are prepared for the careers of tomorrow.

“With direct access to resources and industry professionals, the program will benefit our students by broadening their knowledge of the hydrogen industry.”

Mr Connolly says the State Government’s Gateway to Industry Program has been beneficial to students and staff who are gaining vital industry knowledge in areas such as health and aerospace.

“We expect the Hydrogen program to be as advantageous,” he says.

“The program will also provide our teachers the opportunity to undertake professional learning which in turn will support critical thinking and scientific research within our classrooms.

“We are proud to be partnering with the Queensland Government to create a better, brighter future for our students.”

St Columban’s College teacher Simone Buckingham says the program will open many doors for students.

|“From careers in trades and construction to jobs as project managers and engineers, this program will provide our students with a broader range of skills and training pathways before they’ve even finished school,” she said.|

“By participating in this program, we can contribute to the pipeline of skilled and adaptable graduates needed for Queensland’s hydrogen industry and increase student engagement within the renewable energy sector.”