Mackay State High School’s Amy Harlow already has her dream career as a high-voltage electrician in the mining industry well and truly mapped out.
Amy has been able to explore her career options through the Queensland Government’s Gateway to Industry Schools program delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).
“The QMEA goes in to schools and gives students the chance to explore industries they might not have considered before,” Amy said.
“They get hands-on with real skills and discover career pathways they may not have known were even possible, all while staying connected to their local community.
“From the first trade and STEM workshops I attended, I’ve felt supported, inspired and motivated to chase my goals.
“Those experiences helped me discover my passion for electrical work, and they opened my eyes to the possibilities that exist in the mining and resources sector, especially in high-voltage electrical work.
“It’s now my dream to become a high-voltage electrician in the mining industry, and QMEA has helped me see exactly how I can get there.”
Amy is now a proud Student Ambassador for the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy and is excited about the recent Queensland Government $2 million expansion of QMEA.
The expansion will add 50 additional schools to the program over the next three years and the establishment of regional hubs in Mackay (in 2025), Rockhampton (in 2026) and Townsville (2027) aiming to reach up to 10,000 more students.
“What’s so special about QMEA is that they don’t just talk about careers, they help you experience them.
“It gives students real insight into the trades and professions within the resources sector, and it connects us with mentors, professionals, and future employers.
“It’s good for our whole community. It means more young people staying local, building careers locally, and contributing to the future of the industry right here in Queensland,” she said.
Find out about Gateway to Industry Schools program.
Last updated 19 August 2025
