The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has awarded more than 200 scholarships to individuals as part of its Elevate: Boosting Diversity in STEM program for 2025.
The initiative aims to diversify Australia’s STEM workforce and support national priorities, including the renewable energy transition, advancements in artificial intelligence, and growth in advanced manufacturing.
The selected scholars, hailing from various regions across the country, will receive financial support to pursue STEM education at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
ATSE CEO Kylie Walker noted the competitive selection process, with over 1,500 applications from motivated individuals eager to make impactful contributions in STEM industries.
“ATSE is incredibly proud to welcome the 2025 Elevate scholars. We’re ready to invest in their personal and professional growth and support them to thrive in STEM-powered careers as they become Australian innovators and make vital contributions in critical sectors,” Walker said.
Launched in 2022 with a $41.2 million foundational investment from the federal Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR), the Elevate program has attracted significant partners, including the Defence Science and Technology Group and Snowy Hydro.
These partnerships enable direct engagement with scholars, enhancing the program’s offerings and creating pathways into STEM careers.
In addition to financial aid, Elevate provides scholars with round-the-clock psychosocial support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and skills-building workshops.
The wrap-around support is designed to empower scholars throughout their studies and equip them to tackle complex challenges in the workforce. To date, 160 scholars have participated in the program, with a retention rate surpassing industry averages.
One of the 2025 scholars, Professor Polly Burey, is set to pursue a Master of Business Administration under the Leadership Category.
“I am hoping with the combination of my existing technical know-how and the development I will undertake during the Elevate program that I am better equipped to instigate real step change in the circular economy and add to the creation of stronger business cases,” Professor Burey remarked.
The program, recently renamed Elevate: Boosting Diversity in STEM, reflects its mission to increase access to STEM education for underrepresented groups, including women, non-binary individuals, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, those from rural or low socioeconomic backgrounds, and others historically marginalized in STEM fields.
With support now extended until 2032, the program partners are set to deliver over 500 scholarships throughout its duration, ensuring sustained efforts to build a diverse and inclusive STEM workforce for Australia’s future.
