The WA Mining Club (“WAMC”), in conjunction with industry co-sponsors, for a number of years, has been offering scholarships for undergraduates undertaking tertiary studies in a mining or mining-related field.
Each scholarship that is awarded, has a value of $10,000 payable in two instalments, subject to satisfactory academic and course progress.
This year ten scholarships will be awarded across nine categories including Geology, Mining Engineering, Metallurgy/Chemical Engineering, Indigenous Student, Indigenous Upskilling, Female Student in a Technical Discipline, Male Student in a Technical Discipline, Environmental Science and Fire and Emergency Services.
The WAMC acknowledges the strong support received from our industry partners and this year’s sponsors being, Iluka, Mt Gibson, IGO, Fire Safety Australia, 360 Environmental, Western Areas (IGO) and King Kira.
To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must prove they are enrolled in a suitable course of study at a tertiary institution and must undergo a rigorous screening and selection process including interviews with the sponsor Companies.
Scholarship recipients not only receive the monetary benefits but are also assigned a mentor, vacation work experience, complimentary attendance at a WAMC luncheon throughout the scholarship year and the ability to rub shoulders with people working within the industry.
Barry Upton, the Committee Scholarship Lead for the WAMC says, “As a scholarship recipient myself many decades ago, it is hard to overestimate the benefits of having additional financial support and in many cases, tertiary study may not be an option without this support. Furthermore, the pathway into vacation employment and mentorship is invaluable in shaping career progression and adding motivation to become a qualified professional. I know from my own experience, that we are already seeing positive outcomes in the 2021 scholarship pool with all recipients doing very well academically and in the field.”
The focus on more diverse scholarships in 2022 recognises the industry is not simply about purely technical roles, but also broader support roles and assists to create better diversity and equity within the industry. In today’s mining world these are key considerations for any Company engaged within the sector.
To celebrate our scholarship winners the WAMC each year holds a special pre-scholarship lunch incorporated within the monthly luncheon schedule where winners get to meet the WAMC committee, members, sponsor Company representatives and general delegates.
The WAMC scholarship programme is a key component of the WAMC’s service to its members and the industry by supporting the next generation of leaders for years to come.
For further information check out the WAMC website “Scholarships” tab or email scholarships@waminingclub.asn.au.
