SHOUT OUT FOR WOMEN WHO SHINE

Minister for Women Margaret Keech today called for nominations for the 2007 Smart Women – Smart State Awards.

The Awards recognise and reward Queensland’s most innovative women in science, engineering or information communication technology (ICT).

“I strongly encourage women to enter these Awards which proved to be the experience of a lifetime and an invaluable career boost to many of the past winners,” Mrs Keech said.

“Too often women overlook their accomplishments and it’s time to shine the light on these amazing women.

“The Awards are an excellent opportunity to profile women and girls who are achieving great things in their chosen industries.

“It’s vital we acknowledge these females working or studying in non-traditional fields and give them the recognition they deserve.

“They have an important role to play in the community by helping to address our skills shortages and inspiring other young women to pursue careers in these emerging industries.”

Mrs Keech said encouraging more women to work in traditionally male-dominated industries was part of the Beattie Government’s commitment to tackling Queensland’s skills shortage.

Rachelle Willis has gone from strength-to-strengh after winning a Smart Women – Smart State Award as an undergraduate student in 2006, starting her PhD with Griffith University in the field of Water Demand Management.

“I was offered jobs by a large variety of companies and private consulting firms. The benefits have been endless through recognition and invitations to many events,” Rachelle said.

Samantha Faint was also honoured to win a Smart Women Award - the 2006 Women in Community Sector Award - for her training programs that teach Indigenous and non-Indigenous people basic ICT skills to help them exhibit their art.

“It was very affirming to be selected to stand alongside remarkable women and be recognised as someone worthy of such high accolades” she said.

Mrs Keech said the Awards, now in their fifth year, had grown in reputation and stature with nominations up by 70 per cent in 2006.

“This year there are even more categories and more money up for grabs with winners entitled to their share of $32,500,” Mrs Keech said.

“Do you think you have what it takes to win a Smart Women – Smart State Award or maybe you know someone in science, engineering or technology who does?

“Nominations are now open but get in quick as they close on 29 June 2007. “

For more information on the awards process and past winners log onto www.women.qld.gov.au/smartwomenawards or call 1800 177 577.

Media contact: Jo Gibbons 3225 1005 / 0421 611 989 or Sarah Seckold (Office for Women) 3006 4188