Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy director appointed

The principal of Gladstone’s Toolooa State High School has been appointed Director of the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford congratulated Roger Atkins on his appointment to the academy, which introduces secondary students to careers in the booming mining and energy industry.

“The QMEA, a partnership between our Government, the Queensland Resources Council and schools, has successfully piloted a number of courses, scholarships and awards to help overcome the skills shortage in the resources sector,” Mr Welford said.

“The academy enables students to access a broad range of minerals and energy career opportunities.

“The recent inaugural QMEA Principal Industry Sponsor Forum highlighted its success, with industry sponsors and principals working together to ensure the Academy continues to maximise industry partnerships and delivers relevant experiences for students in this sector.”

The QMEA currently provides education and industry-based skills training to Year 11 and 12 students in 18 state and non-state gateway schools via its three ‘hubs’ of Mount Isa, Moranbah and Gladstone.

Mr Welford said Mr Atkins, as Gladstone Hub Principal, had contributed significantly to the development and establishment of the QMEA, also helping to establish strong partnerships between industry and schools in the Central Queensland region.

”His main achievement in this role was establishing the Gladstone Schools Engineering Skills Centre within the NRG Gladstone Power Station,” Mr Welford said.

“He is the ideal person to manage and lead the QMEA into the future.”

Queensland Resources Council Chief Executive Michael Roche said the appointment of the new director was a positive outcome for the QMEA.

“Mr Atkins has a proven record of leadership, which will see the QMEA positioned as the premier provider of education and training for school students in the minerals and energy sector,” Mr Roche said.

Media Contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000

November 23 2007