Students in Campbelltown have been inspired to follow a career in the cutting-edge STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics), health and research fields after gaining a first-hand look at the opportunities available to them with help from Council and the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research.
More than 80 students from six Campbelltown high schools and with an interest in a career in the growing health sector were chosen to take part in the Making the Connection event.
"We are pleased to partner with the Ingham Institute to bring this event to young people and to expose them to the wide variety of careers available in the health industry and the exciting opportunities these careers can bring,'' said Mayor George Brticevic.
"We are evolving into a more tech and innovation dependent world and this event is a chance to nurture local capacity for innovation and to provide the students with an entry point into a STEAM career so they can start developing the skills they need for the jobs of the future,'' Cr Brticevic said.
"We also wanted to show the students that Campbelltown and south western Sydney are areas of opportunity and exciting and innovative places to learn and work,'' he said.
The students got a closer look at the Institute's new treatments and cutting-edge equipment, including the powerful MRI-Linac – one of four machines in the world redefining and improving radiation treatment for cancer. The day also allowed for students to take part in a number of hands-on medical simulation activities, as well as interactive tours of the Institute and Liverpool Hospital.
The day included two Q&A sessions featuring a range of people who are working or studying in the health sector.
The students were also able to discuss the various study courses and pathways available with representatives from various universities and TAFEs.
The participating students were from schools including Sarah Redfern, Robert Townson, Ingleburn, Campbelltown Performing Arts and Hurlstone Agricultural high schools and St Patrick's College, Campbelltown.
It is anticipated that this program will be run next year.
