Throughout the 2026 recruitment season, the Faculty connected with thousands of prospective students, parents, teachers and career advisers across Queensland and northern New South Wales.
The program included Open Day, InspireU, the Engineering, Design and Computing Careers Evening, WE Explore Day, a four-day school holiday program, regional outreach, events for career advisers and bespoke school engagement days.
Academics, EAIT Ambassadors, UQ Innovate, Women in Engineering and Computing Student Leaders, and industry partners brought these experiences to life by sharing their knowledge and giving students an insight into studying at UQ.
Taking UQ on the road: Inspiring future innovators
Regional visits to careers expos in Dalby and Lismore with the Mobile Makerspace, alongside Women in Engineering regional trips to Townsville, extended our reach beyond Brisbane - giving students the opportunity to explore study and career pathways across engineering, architecture, design, planning and computing.
The UQ Mobile Makerspace also recently visited Cherbourg State School, bringing hands-on science, technology and engineering activities directly to students. From exploring microscopes and fossils to experimenting with robotics, the visit encouraged curiosity, discovery and a glimpse into future learning opportunities.
By taking interactive learning experiences into regional and remote communities, the Mobile Makerspace helps young people explore new ideas, build confidence and see the many pathways that education can create. This visit forms part of UQ's Queensland Commitment regional tours.
Shawn and Zee.
Careers, connections and possibilities for our prospective students
This year's Engineering, Design and Computing Careers Evening brought together more than 400 attendees and 25 industry partners and UQ teams. Students were able to explore future pathways, connecting with professionals, alumni and our student ambassadors throughout the night.
Further, our holiday program connected with over 150+ year 9 and 10 students who learnt to think like engineers, architects, designers, urban planners and computing professionals through hands-on workshops and presentations led by our lecturers and student ambassador team.
Hands-on activities were a particular highlight. Through workshops and demonstrations, students explored the creativity, innovation and problem-solving skills at the heart of our disciplines. Reaching over 300+ students and engaging them with interactive and informative experiences.
Building connections from within schools
While major events introduce students to UQ, the High School Ambassador Program creates an ongoing connection within school communities.
The program supports Year 11 high school students to champion engineering, computing and design within their own schools. Ambassadors lead activities, share study and career opportunities with their peers, support school STEM initiatives and act as a link between their school and the Faculty.
Fraser Coast Anglican College has reached the National Finals of the Science and Engineering Challenge, with our high school ambassadors supporting the team’s preparation. Our ambassadors are also supporting the school through activities, training and fundraising.
Students from Charters Towers School of Distance Education requested a session with UQ researchers exploring chemical and biomedical engineering. A big shoutout to Associate Professor Joy Wolfram and Dr Mauro Torres from the School of Chemical Engineering for delivering the session online to students across multiple schools. Students also shared UQ and STEM opportunities through posters displayed at Anglican Church Grammar School.
High school ambassadors and a parent or guardian will also be invited to UQ’s Engineering, Design and Computing High School Ambassador Dinner with the Dean on 10th September. The evening will include a guided campus tour and dinner at Patina Alumni Court, with an opportunity to meet Executive Dean Professor Liesel Folks and hear about studying at UQ, innovation and future career opportunities.
This student-led approach allows the Faculty to build stronger, more sustained relationships with schools. It also extends our engagement beyond individual events by creating a visible presence within participating schools and encouraging interest in our disciplines throughout the year.
