Exploring STEM, Design and Innovation with Future First Nations Leaders
The Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology (EAIT) welcomed twenty Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander high school students to the inaugural EAIT First Nations Camp. The five-day program was designed to inspire, inform, and connect young people with future study and career opportunities across engineering, architecture, information technology, computer science, design, and planning.
Held at UQ’s St Lucia campus, with visits to key industry partner locations around Brisbane, the camp offered students a hands-on, immersive introduction to the diverse disciplines within EAIT. Central to the program was a deep embedding of First Nations cultural perspectives, with a strong focus on connection to Country, storytelling, and knowledge sharing.
Celebrating Culture and Exploring Possibilities
The week began with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, followed by a Yarnin’ Circle led by Quandamooka and Barunggam Elder Aunty Rosie Bell. Her reflections reinforced culture, identity, and respect for the land on which they gathered.
As the week unfolded, students engaged in a wide range of workshops and cultural activities. One of the most memorable sessions was a boomerang-making and throwing workshop, grounded in the aerodynamic design principles attributed to Aboriginal inventor Uncle David Unaipon.
Through activities such as the Corroboree and traditional games, guided by Paul Spearim, students explored the ways in which Indigenous knowledges have long demonstrated problem-solving, logic, and teamwork - all vital skills in STEM disciplines.
For Year 12 student Elijah Williams, the experience was both eye-opening and affirming.
“This camp showed me all of the opportunities that are out there - especially in Engineering, which is what I am looking to go into in the future,” he said.
Learning from Leaders and Expanding Horizons
Across the five days, students had the opportunity to engage directly with UQ academics, current students, and professionals from industry. Workshops in aerospace engineering introduced students to the forces of flight and rocket design, while a networking skills session helped build confidence in presenting ideas and connecting with others.
Industry visits gave students further insight into what a future in STEM could look like. At Civil Geotechnical Consultants (CGC), students explored geotechnical testing, drone piloting, and advanced modelling technology.
“It was a pleasure to showcase the world of Civil and Geotechnical Engineering - from soil testing and drone piloting to advanced modelling using Plaxis 3D,” said CGC Corporate Services Manager, Jillian Carney.
“Our team loved sharing what we do, and we hope the students walked away with a deeper understanding of the many exciting pathways in engineering. A big thank you to UQ for the opportunity - we're honoured to support and inspire the next generation of First Nations engineers.”
Students also visited organisations including Wilson Architects, Urbis, GHD, Baidam Solutions, and BESIX Watpac at Ipswich Hospital. A highlight of the week was the evening networking event hosted by Blaklash, an Aboriginal-owned creative agency, where students connected with Indigenous professionals working in design, technology, and community-led innovation.
Guided by Community, Supported by Mentors
A strong support network played a central role in the camp. EAIT First Nations Student Ambassadors - current UQ students - were present throughout the week, offering mentorship, advice, and lived experience about transitioning into university life. They helped guide students through each activity and created a welcoming environment where everyone felt empowered to ask questions and explore their interests.
The program also made space for reflection and personal growth. Evening journaling activities gave students time to process their experiences, while sessions on scholarships, accommodation, and student life helped prepare them for the practical aspects of university study.
For Rennae Hopkins, UQ’s Indigenous Outreach Officer and organiser of the camp, the impact was clear.
“This camp was about more than just showcasing our disciplines,” she said.
“It was about helping students see themselves in these spaces - as future engineers, designers, architects, and technology specialists. We wanted to create an experience that celebrated culture while allowing students to experience the opportunities and take the next steps in their journeys.”
Looking Ahead
The EAIT First Nations Camp reflects UQ’s ongoing commitment to fostering culturally safe, inclusive, and empowering learning environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. With the theme “Dream big and discover your potential,” the camp encouraged students to imagine themselves not just participating in these industries but leading them - supported by a community of mentors, peers, and educators who believe in their future.
As the week came to a close, students left with new friendships, a deeper sense of cultural pride, and a clearer vision for the opportunities that lie ahead in engineering, architecture, IT, design, and planning.
To learn more about future EAIT First Nations camps or outreach initiatives, contact:
Rennae Hopkins
Email: r.hopkins@uq.edu.au
