Since the commencement of the Morley-Ellenbrook line, Laing O’Rouke has been working with students from Ellenbrook Christian College (ECC) to encourage more female students into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) courses in universities and ultimately, careers in Construction and Engineering.

The program, known as ‘Inspiring STEM+’ seeks to engage junior secondary school female students with STEM-based activities and develop interactive conversations with them in this space.

Our Year 10 Students, who began the course as Year 8’s two years ago, have had exposure to a range of various areas across the sector inclusive of Human Relations, Indigenous affairs, Community Relationships, Accounting and different aspects of administration.

This two-year course concluded with a series of discussions as representatives engaged students in some interactive learning.

An excursion to the Whiteman Park Rail Station (currently under construction) saw the students fitted with ‘hi-viz’ gear, sporting fluorescent vests, hardhats and eye protection. ECC’s newest FIFO-fashion students are now ready and attired for the mining and resources boom!

This visit was able to offer a glimpse into the progress of the MetroNET project together with it’s community and environmental impact.

With the huge amount of development still needed in Western Australia, both Laing O’Rouke and Ellenbrook Christian College (ECC) are happy to be partnering to assist our greater community through the empowerment of students who will one day serve in these industries.

The group finished with lunch at the Malaga Station, again gaining more exposure to the large scale work being undertaken to further connect Ellenbrook to the wider Perth Metro area.