From the Futures Hub

DiscovHER Skills Day 

On Wednesday, 12 very lucky students attended the “DiscovHER” skills day in energy hosted by Construction Skills Queensland and Powerlink. Throughout the day, they were introduced to careers in the energy sector and participated in interactive activities designed to explain how Powerlink manages the energy requirements for Queensland. A highlight of the day was a tour of the simulation control room, where operators are trained in managing all aspects of the power grid in Queensland.

Student reflections from the day:

I was lucky enough to go on the DiscovHER excursion. Throughout the day, we did many activities, such as designing and building our own transmission towers. We got to learn about how electrical engineering works and what electrical engineers do. Overall, it was a fun experience that many people should try. You are able to learn while having fun. - Abby 

The DiscovHER day was an eye-opening experience for me, as I learnt that there is so much more to being an electrician than changing a light bulb. I greatly enjoyed the task of building a transmission tower out of spaghetti and marshmallows. After the day, I am more certain that a career as an electrician is right for me, as you can start as an apprentice and develop your skills towards working in the control room. I am very grateful for the opportunity yesterday to go to Powerlink and to grow my skills and knowledge. - Claudia 

I learnt a lot at the DiscovHER program excursion, including how electricity travels through power lines, how the lines are built and how the control centre forms the core of Powerlink. I also learnt that there are various kinds of power lines that connect across the whole of Australia, especially Queensland, which acts as a powerhouse for other states. - Nyah 

I thought the day was really fun and interesting. I definitely enjoyed getting to know all the different types of industries you can go into, and I think this has assisted me in making a decision for my future. I loved the interactive sections, especially the one where we used water to demonstrate different power and consuming energy because it was oddly difficult to control at times. - Grace

Work Experience

With the holidays approaching, it is a great opportunity for students who are interested in participating in work experience to arrange a placement. Work experience gives students the opportunity to explore careers and gain a realistic understanding of what different jobs and workplaces are like. It helps students develop practical skills, confidence, communication, teamwork and independence while learning about workplace expectations. Work experience can also help students identify their strengths, interests and future career goals, making decisions about subjects, courses and further study easier. 

If you are interested in arranging work experience, placement forms must be completed by the family, employer and school before the placement begins so that all legal obligations are met. Please visit the Futures Hub before 20 November to allow time for the necessary paperwork to be completed.

Work Window Virtual Reality Career Exploration 

I am pleased to announce that after a successful trial of Work Window's virtual reality career experiences, the college will be introducing these at the commencement of 2027 to add to the career education offerings already available. The feedback from the students has been immensely positive, and they are eager to explore further in the new year.

Futures Hub Newsletter 

The latest edition of Mount Alvernia College's Futures Hub newsletter is packed with valuable resources and opportunities for students exploring career pathways.