QRC inspires students to join resources industry

The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has launched a new campaign, Shape Our Future, to increase interest in resource industry careers.

The campaign aims to inspire Year 12 students and their families by highlighting how early-career professionals are contributing innovation, sustainability and real-world problem solving across the sector.

Showcasing real stories, the roles profiled in the campaign include and earth science intern, a critical minerals researcher, a land access manager, a maintenance supervisor and an environmental officer.

Pembroke Resources earth science intern Mackenzie says she is excited to be a part of the campaign and share her passion for the resources industry.

“It is awesome taking everything I’ve learned in the classroom at university and putting it into practice on site, I definitely feel like I am part of a bigger picture,” she said.

Shape Our Future builds on the success of the QRC’s previous Shape Your Future, with a shift of focus from individual career rewards to the benefit of working in a collaborative industry at the forefront of developing new technologies and innovations for a sustainable world.

QRC chief executive Janette Hewson says the campaign’s strength lies in its authenticity.

“The best advocates for recruiting the next generation into our sector are young people already working in it,” she said.

The campaign will run across social media and online platforms for three months starting on the date when Year 12 students can start submitting their university course preferences.

“We want to excite school leavers about the potential of a resources career and give them information to help them to identify the best role and study path to reach their career goals,” Ms Hewson said.

“I’d like to thank our 2025 university partner James Cook University and QRC members Pembroke Resources, Arrow Energy, Critical Minerals Group [ASX: CMG] and Thiess for their partnership in providing the talent and locations for the campaign.”