The City of Greater Bendigo is pleased to announce a new work placement initiative aimed at encouraging more young women to explore careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Applications are now open for the Young Women in STEM Work Placement Program which is aimed at high school students in Years 9 and 10 across Greater Bendigo. The program will offer week-long placements in selected City units where STEM skills are actively applied such as Bendigo Airport, Bendigo Venues & Events, Engineering and Financial Strategy.
Applicants will undergo a competitive selection process managed by the respective unit.
Director Corporate Performance Jess Howard said the City was proud to present the new STEM placement program.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for 12 young women to gain hands-on experience and valuable insights on what STEM careers look like within local government," Ms Howard said.
"Students will be selected through a competitive application process and placed in departments where they will see how STEM skills are used every day.
"The City is deeply committed to advancing gender equality both in the workplace and across our community. This program reflects our goal to build strong, diverse teams that deliver high-quality services.
"STEM offers a wide range of exciting and evolving career pathways, and these skills are increasingly valued by employers. I hope this experience inspires students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and maths. It's vital that organisations like ours, and local businesses in the region, continue to attract emerging talent and embrace the benefits of a diverse workforce."
The following City business units are championing the program and offering placement opportunities that highlight STEM in action:
- Bendigo Venues & Events: August 25-29, 2025
- Resource Recovery & Education: August 25-29 or September 1-5, 2025
- Climate Change & Environment: September 1-5 or September 15-19, 2025
- Engineering: September 1-5 or November 10-14, 2025
- Financial Strategy: September 8-12 or October 20-24, 2025
- Bendigo Airport: October 6-10 or November 10-14, 2025
- Information Technology: November 10-14, 2025
Today also marks International Women in Engineering Day, a global celebration of the achievements of women engineers and a call to action for more women to shape the world through engineering. The City proudly acknowledges the contributions of its women engineers: Saran O'Connor-Williams (Infrastructure Engineer), Larnie Ham (Graduate Design Engineer), and Kylie Douglas (Senior Landfill Engineer).
"Their work demonstrates the innovation and impact of women in engineering and highlights the exciting range of career opportunities available in STEM," Ms Howard said.
The City presents around 60 work placements a year for high school and university students, of which 12 will be linked to the Young Women in STEM Work Placement Program. The other City placements are open to everyone who meets the criteria.
