Students preparing for technical careers in Collie were given a look into the future at the first Science Alliance event, at South Regional TAFE.

IG Chairman Phil Hearse took centre stage, along with other recipients of the Collie Futures Industry Development Fund, sharing his wealth of engineering, metallurgy and mineral processing experience with the young audience, along with his passion for ensuring young people get access to the best possible career opportunities.

As well as an overview of the way graphite is helping transform the power and transport industries, students were introduced to other innovative products that will be produced in the new industry hub at Collie, including polymer concrete products from recycled waste materials, collagen extraction,  medicinal cannabis and hemp products.

Hosted by Colliecrete researchers, based at Murdoch University, the event attracted 40 students from Collie Senior High School and the Collie and Bunbury TAFE campuses. Each participating company had the opportunity to introduce their operations, processes, products and discuss their need for science-based skills.

Students were welcomed by Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns and Apprenticeship Support Australia, who discussed the dynamic work opportunities that were emerging to replace the region’s traditional reliance on coal mining.

Mr Hearse said it was a great opportunity to meet the future Collie workforce and to meet the exciting new industries moving into the town.

“We have specifically chosen to base IG in Collie because the area is very forward looking. It has great infrastructure, a progressive, hard-working community and we are pleased to be part of that. We appreciate the WA Government’s role in supporting new industries, like ours, that are going to deliver new career pathways for young people and ensure Collie continues to thrive,” he said.

Find out more about International Graphite and the Collie Futures Industry Development Fund.