Engineers Australia has congratulated the Government of Western Australia on the launch of the State STEM Skills Strategy.

STEM Advisory Panel member, Engineers Australia WA General Manager, Susan Kreemer Pickford, said the strategy aims to ensure the workforce has the skills to embrace a technological future.

“It is imperative the broader community is aware of where current and future work opportunities lie, so that we are equipping our workforce with the right skill sets,” said Ms Kreemer Pickford.

“The State STEM Skills Strategy will help increase the uptake of science, technology, engineering and maths disciplines in schools, which is key to creating a vibrant STEM culture.”

Ms Kreemer Pickford said an increasingly technology-rich and innovate economy requires the skills of engineers to bridge the gap between ideas and the products and services that will drive productivity and economic growth.

“Engineering offers an amazing array of opportunities – across the globe, across different sectors, industries and communities. The possibilities are endless,” she said.

“The beauty of engineering is there are so many differing roles that individuals can work to their strengths and find the role that is the right fit for them. “

At just 13 per cent, engineering has the lowest numbers of women compared to other STEM professions, something Ms Kreemer Pickford believes the strategy can help address.

“The State STEM strategy will bring a much-needed focus to the declining number of students taking up maths and science; particularly girls,” she said.

“Engineering solutions benefit from diversity of thought. Attracting women and girls to STEM and providing an environment for them to thrive will contribute to Western Australia’s global competitiveness and prosperity.”