The 2023 IWD theme of ‘Cracking the Code’ highlights the role that bold, transformative ideas, inclusive technologies, and accessible education can play in combatting discrimination and the marginalisation of women globally.
Creating career pathways and inclusive workplaces for women
Unitywater’s CEO, Anna Jackson said she was committed to creating career pathways and inclusive workplaces for women in STEM.
“We aim to support the advancement of education and upskilling of women through the Unitywater Fiona Waterhouse Women in STEM Scholarship for deserving female students studying in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
“At Unitywater there are so many opportunities for women in STEM careers and I’m in awe of these women every single day and the jobs they do,” she said.
“From the water scientists keeping your drinking water safe, the infrastructure engineers who are bringing innovation and ideas to future infrastructure for our region and the technology specialists, making it easier for our customers to do business with us every day.
“Women represent 36% of Unitywater’s workforce and there is a strong focus on fostering an environment where women are supported to pursue rewarding careers in the STEM field.”
Ms Jackson also said, “women in these fields are making a huge contribution to the sustainability of our region and we are committed to innovating, embracing new technologies and championing the unique skills and knowledge of women in STEM in our region, as well as attracting new talent to our region.”
Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart said diversity and inclusion were critical to creating excellence in science and technology.
“We need to break down the barriers and continue to encourage female participation in STEM education and careers.”
“Noosa Council’s Peregian Digital Hub is playing a major role in this space and is continually developing workshops aimed at filling the gap,” she said.
“It’s important to value the knowledge of our young women and create future learning and career pathways for them.”
“With the emergence of artificial intelligence, there are going to be some fascinating opportunities in science, technology and engineering,” she said.
“Noosa Council has just expanded the Digital Hub to embrace the growth in AI, which will radically shape how we work, learn and create and create jobs in the digital sector and further enhance Noosa’s reputation as a great location for technology innovation and talent”.
Supporting economic development
Sunshine Coast Council CEO Emma Thomas agreed, saying STEM careers in the region supported economic development.
“I think a STEM career can set people up for so many great things, I’m an engineer and I’m the CEO of Sunshine Coast Council!
“We have an incredible pipeline of STEM education, opportunities and projects on the Sunshine Coast including our University and the Innovation Centre, as well as a range of school programs,” she said.
“We are all working together to build up the capability, bring in the businesses and build the infrastructure to attract and retain STEM talent to this region which then adds and contributes to our economy.”
“We are also broadening our ideas of diversity and inclusion here at Council and we really want people to be included no matter where they come from or how they identify.”
The digital economy creating opportunities for women
Moreton Bay’s Deputy Mayor Cr Jodie Shipway said she wants to see women playing a key role in transforming the region’s economy and future.
“Throughout history change has happened slowly for women but I believe the digital economy and this moment in history will be the great global equaliser,” she said.
“Research shows girls match boys in school, but don’t end up being the top performers in industry due to continuing biases and stereotypes - so we are strategically investing in education and empowering women to enter STEM careers.
“So, I’m thrilled to have UniSC located within the Millovate precinct, because this will become an innovation hub dedicated to advanced manufacturing, medical technologies, scientific research, and information technology.
“By empowering women to play a key role in our future economy, we will supercharge our path to prosperity.
“It’s my dream that in years to come we’ll see graduates from around Australia making Moreton Bay their first preference on uni applications, because we’ve achieved such incredible outcomes here and weren’t afraid to do things a little differently.”
