At Loganlea State High School (SHS), students are getting a front-row seat to the world of agriculture, thanks to the hard work and dedication of initiatives like the AgForce School to Industry Partnerships Program (SIPP).
Delivered since 2004, the SIPP has successfully been the conduit between Queensland primary producing agribusiness and schools (students and educators), with a range of initiatives and events educating students about the origins of their food and fibre, engaging them with a wealth of primary production and agricultural sectors and raising the profile of careers in agribusiness and the variety of career paths on offer.
One recent success story highlights the incredible impact this program has on students, their futures, and the broader agricultural industry.
Isaac is a Year 10 student at Loganlea SHS and his goal is to become a diesel mechanic working on heavy vehicles in an agricultural setting, specifically on a cattle station.
This year, Isaac had the opportunity to attended a SIPP tour to Rocky Point Mulching, a facility where sugar cane mulch and other products are processed. During the tour, he took the initiative to introduce himself to Josh, Operations Manager at Rocky Point Mulching, and discuss his career ambitions. This simple conversation sparked an opportunity for Isaac to pursue his goal.
Later in the year, a staff member from the Loganlea SHS reached out to Josh to see if he'd consider interviewing Isaac to help him gain experience in applying for a job. Josh, known for his commitment to mentoring young people, agreed. Isaac's interview went well, impressing Josh with his maturity and enthusiasm. Isaac was offered a week of hands-on work experience in Rocky Point Mulching's workshop, where he worked on heavy machinery and vehicles. The experience was more valuable than Isaac had anticipated, and it solidified his passion for the field.
Josh also discussed the possibility of future opportunities for Isaac, including paid work during the holidays or a school-based traineeship. Regardless of the outcome, Isaac gained invaluable industry experience, practical skills, and new connections that will support his career journey.
The story doesn't end with Isaac, though. Simon, the Workshop Manager at Rocky Point Mulching, expressed a need for more young people entering the diesel mechanic profession. He's eager to offer more work experience placements to students, which is exciting news for Loganlea SHS, where there's a growing interest in careers in diesel mechanics and heavy vehicle repair. Several senior students are set to follow in Isaac's footsteps, gaining hands-on experience and industry exposure.
This partnership between Loganlea SHS, SIPP, and Rocky Point Mulching is a powerful example of how collaboration between education and industry can open doors for young people, and how the SIPP program is creating pathways to success, giving students the chance to build skills, gain experience, and explore career options.
