Students inspired to pursue STEM

School students have had a taste of what it would be like to pursue a career in technology after completing Suncorp Group’s STEM work experience program.

Now in its second year, the program aims to inspire young people to explore a career in technology and showcase that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills are transferrable.

Over four to five days, students were given hands-on experience in data science, artificial intelligence, coding, and building apps and websites. Students were then split into teams to develop and present their own app or website aimed at helping teens better manage their money.

This year, approximately 140 students took part from nine high schools in Brisbane and Sydney. Another 260 Brisbane primary school students participated in STEM Challenge Days in August.

Suncorp Chief Information Officer Sarah Harland said the STEM program is a great opportunity to influence and inspire young people to consider a career in technology at a time in their lives when they’re deciding their career path.

In her keynote to Brigidine College students, Sarah gave this advice: "Before pursuing your career, take the time to truly understand what you’re good at and what you most enjoy.

"You have access to so much knowledge and information because of technology. We are in a competitive world – Australian businesses need the smartest, most innovative people like you to drive them forward."

Meeting with Suncorp employees was something Brigidine College student, Charlie Milner, especially appreciated, writing to her teacher about her thoughts after her first day in the program.

"When the day began we were introduced to many Suncorp employees," Charlie said in her note. 

"They all spoke to us about their journey and how they got to where they are today. When the day was over, I recalled what I had learnt during day and apart from all the skills for problem solving and technology development I now obtain, one major part of the day stuck with me.

"Every single person who spoke to us emphasised the fact that we can do whatever we want to do and that when an opportunity comes your way just take it, because we have absolutely nothing to lose! This really made me feel more confident about my future and how I should perceive my opportunities."