The Hon. Michael Ferguson MP, Minister for Information Technology and Innovation launched the inaugural Tasmanian STEM Awards on Friday 12 August, 2016 during National Science Week.
Together with Engineers Australia, the University of Tasmania (UTAS), and Inspiring Australia, the government aims to recognise and increase participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and careers.
This awards program “will ensure we can best recognise those people leading the way in STEM and also those inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers”, said the Minister.
“Tasmania is a world-recognised home to a vibrant and diverse science research community, ranging across areas such as Antarctic, Southern Ocean and Marine Studies, Information and Communications Technology, Food Science Agricultural, Aquaculture and Fisheries, and Radioastronomy.
“While only 2.4 per cent of Australia’s population lives in Tasmania, we are home to some of the nation’s major research organisations”, the Minister said.
Dr Vicki Gardiner, General Manager – Tasmania, Engineers Australia praised the partnership.
“The Tasmanian engineering profession is competing, collaborating and supplying services to an international field. Unfortunately, this is not necessarily widely known. Recognition through this government initiative highlights the opportunities for students within the state to contribute to the community," said Dr Gardiner.
The awards program, with a total prize pool of $20,000, consists of four awards:
- The Premier’s Tasmanian STEM Researcher of the Year;
- The Minister’s Tasmanian STEM Innovation of the Year;
- The Tasmanian STEM Teacher of the Year for Primary Years; and
- The Tasmanian STEM Teacher of the Years for Secondary Years.
Applications are now open and the winners will be announced at an event in November.
Find out more about the Tasmanian STEM Awards.
Image: 3D printer office, iStock.