Lockheed Martin Australia will be supporting university students in two government-led programs to advance their skills and experience and boost South Australia’s defence and science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) credentials.
The defence technology and innovation company will sponsor up to eight students at South Australian universities in the Defence Honours Scholarship Program and the STEM Internship Program, both of which are being delivered in partnership with the Playford Memorial Trust and the Defence Teaming Centre since 2014.
The Defence Honours Scholarship Program awards scholarships to up to ten undergraduate students each year, providing them with the opportunity to undertake their final year Honours project in partnership with industry.
The Defence and STEM Internship Program awards 10 internships to third and fourth year undergraduate students each year, providing them with industry experience through work placements of between 12 and 24 weeks with defence companies and industries reliant on STEM skills.
Premier Jay Weatherill said the funding provides much sought after opportunities for students to gain valuable industry experience, enhance their learning and gain work-ready skills with local defence industry partners.
“Our state is home to a world-class defence industry, delivering innovative solutions to complex problems,” Mr Weatherill noted.
“Having a State Budget surplus, as announced on Thursday, allows us to be flexible in the way that we ensure we have skilled STEM workers capable of meeting the industry’s needs into the future. These programs, along with our $500 million STEM investment in schools, will give students the experience they need to succeed in the field – and a foot in the door for jobs in the defence sector.”
Lockheed Martin Australia Chief Executive Raydon Gates said the company recognises that its future success depends on the constant supply of highly trained, highly capable technical talent.
“As part of our efforts to educate and inspire tomorrow’s scientists, engineers and mathematicians, we believe that supporting initiatives like this one will play a vital role in educating the next generation of STEM professionals,” he added.
“We know the opportunities that a career in STEM can afford firsthand and we are pleased to be participating in these programs with the South Australian Government to ensure future generations will have the access and opportunities to choose a rewarding career.”
