The Avalon International Airshow, recently held from 26 February to 3 March, proved to be a valuable opportunity to promote the engineering profession to students.
As the biggest aviation, aerospace and defence exposition in the southern hemisphere, this year the Airshow looked to further highlight the benefits of building STEM skills through an exhibition showcasing education, career and skill opportunities in STEM.
In partnership with the Office of Projects Victoria, representatives from Engineers Australia and its associated groups were joined by Chief Engineer of Victoria Collette Burke, speaking with guests about the diverse profession of engineering and some of the exciting projects underway.
Guests’ skills were put to the challenge with paper aeroplane making kits, as well as interactive games showcasing the diversity of engineering roles and projects.
The Airshow plays an important role in making the world of aviation and engineering accessible to the public, according to Young Engineers Australia (YEA) – Victoria Committee Member Nicole Brown, who participated on the stand.
‘The Avalon Airshow allows the public to get 'up close and personal' with technology and see the important role engineering plays in innovation and development’, said Ms Brown.
‘Engineers are at the forefront of so many incredible innovations; engaging through the platform of the Airshow brings those innovations to the world!’
Inviting representatives from the YEA – Victoria group to participate on the stand also provided a valuable opportunity for young engineers to meet new people – from students to senior engineers, said YEA Victoria Committee Member Abdul Khan.
‘This was a great initiative from Engineers Australia, as we were able to share our stories with aspiring students’, said Mr Khan.
‘Having Engineers Australia Victoria General Manager Alesha Printz and Victoria’s Chief Engineer Collette Burke with us at the stand was also inspiring for all the volunteers’.
Engineers Australia would like to thank all volunteers who participated in the event.