Perth’s Resources Technology Showcase 2019: Back to school for the resources industry

The resources industry has made its way back into the classroom after a hiatus of 20 years with a new pilot program being rolled out to Year 5 and 6 students in the Pilbara next year.

Launched this week by Premier Mark McGowan and Education Minister Sue Ellery, the Resources Challenge: Automation pilot will give students a “hands-on” classroom experience in the fields of automation, robotics and coding.

They made the announcement at the Resources Technology Showcase, during which students immersed themselves in science and technology exhibitions such as one hosted by Shell.

Mr McGowan said it was important that the school curriculum adapted to changes in technology to prepare for the different jobs of the future.

“Fields including artificial intelligence, augmented reality, data analytics and autonomous transport will shape the resources industry in years to come and it’s crucial that WA students are provided with the best learning tools to gain employment in these industries,” Mr McGowan said.

The program, funded and developed through the Pilbara Collaboration Charter, has been signed by the Premier, Chamber of Minerals and Energy, BHP, Chevron Australia, CITIC Pacific Mining, Fortescue Metals Group, Rio Tinto Iron Ore, Woodside and Yara Pilbara.

CME chief executive Paul Everingham said the resources sector was at the forefront of innovation and technology including the active use of drones, autonomous haul trucks, drills and underwater vehicles.

“Technology is moving very quickly which is why we need to ensure that today’s students are equipped with the skills for the jobs of tomorrow,” Mr Everingham said.

The pilot program will be rolled out in term one to selected Year 5 and 6 classes in the Pilbara and if successful it will be offered to students from pre-primary to Year 10 across WA. Other digital technology courses in automation and data-analysis will also be offered.