Coronado’s partnership with the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) continues to create meaningful opportunities for regional students to explore careers in the resources sector while strengthening connections between industry and local schools.
Building on the success of its 2025 engagement activities, Coronado will continue partnering with QMEA in 2026, reaffirming its commitment to developing future talent and supporting education pathways across Central Queensland.
During the year, Coronado participated in two QMEA programs designed to inspire students through real-world industry experiences. At the Tradies for a Day workshop at Blackwater State High School, 17 Year 10 students gained hands-on exposure to trade careers through practical activities, virtual reality experiences and a welding simulator, while connecting with Coronado employees working across training, human resources and trade disciplines.
Coronado also supported the Rock Solid Futures program at CQUniversity in Rockhampton, where more than 50 Year 10 female students from Rockhampton Girls Grammar School and The Cathedral College explored the diverse opportunities available within mining. Through employee presentations, STEM activities and career readiness workshops, students learned about careers in mining engineering, geology, environmental science, human resources and electrical trades, while gaining practical skills in resume writing, interview preparation and career planning.
Together, the two programs reached 67 students and helped demonstrate how classroom learning can translate into rewarding careers close to home. Feedback from students and teachers highlighted the value of the interactive, hands-on format and the opportunity to hear directly from industry professionals. By showcasing the broad range of professional, technical, environmental, trade and support roles available across mining, Coronado helped broaden students’ understanding of the industry while inspiring confidence in their future career choices.
Through its ongoing partnership with QMEA, Coronado is investing in the next generation of regional talent and helping ensure young people have the knowledge, connections and confidence to pursue careers in the resources sector.
