With the Australian mining sector expecting renewed employment growth over the next five years* - of 2.4%, or 5,600 jobs - industry participants will reap the rewards.

This is even more the case for TAFE NSW Parkes student Hannah Ross, who today won a Mining Electrical and Mining Mechanical Engineering Society (MEMMES) Scholarship valued at $2,000.

A technical society within Engineers Australia, MEMMES partnered with the Hunter TAFE Foundation to offer the scholarship to encourage further study for workers in the mining industry. Anyone who was enrolled in, or had recently completed an electrical or mechanical engineering trade qualification was eligible to apply. Four scholarships were provided in total, with the other recipients from Cobar, Newcastle and Muswellbrook.

MEMMES National Chair, Peter Whipp, said, “Due to the high calibre of applications this year, the selection committee decided to award four scholarships rather than the usual two. Last year, we had one winner from Orange and one from the Hunter Valley. MEMMES is excited to have doubled our donation in 2019 to $8,000.”

“Our goal is to encourage apprentices to further their education and go on to take leading industry roles, as the engineers of the future. Vital roles like these provide a significant contribution to the sector’s ongoing success.”

Hunter TAFE Foundation president Gary Webb said, “We are delighted to work with MEMMES to support and inspire mining industry participants into advancing their engineering studies. This generous donation will greatly assist four Australians to help realise their tremendous potential as opportunities in their sector pick up speed.”

A thrilled Hannah accepted the award at a special presentation in Dubbo today, and said, “I will use the scholarship funds to put towards some leadership training, and updating my heavy vehicle skills.”

”I believe learning every day keeps the brain healthy, busy and focused. This scholarship will help me as I strive to become a leader and mentor, and an advocate for other females to follow their chosen career paths, regardless of their industry.”

Established in 2000, the Hunter TAFE Foundation is a not-for-profit charitable organisation working with business, education and community leaders committed to supporting education and training at TAFE NSW by helping students achieve their goals. In the 2018 financial year, the Foundation presented over $75,000 in awards and scholarships providing support and encouragement to students in their studies.

TAFE NSW is Australia’s largest training provider. Many of its courses can also be studied online, when and where it suits students, via TAFE Digital. Visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601 to explore many exciting semester two courses which are available for enrolment now.

*Labour Market Information Portal

Media contact: Luke Schuyler, TAFE NSW Media & Communications Business Partner, 0439 536 563.