Digital careers explored at BiG Day In

Almost 500 school students from across the Sunshine Coast benefited from the insights of experienced technology professionals from a range of global companies at the annual BiG Day In digital careers conference today (May 1) held at the Lake Kawana Community Centre.

The event, aimed at secondary school students in years 9-12, featured leading speakers from companies such as IBM, Microsoft, WiseTech, Technology One, Youi Insurance and more, all speaking about the future of technology and how students can shape a future career in this field.

Supported by Sunshine Coast Council, the Australian Computer Society (ACS) Foundation and the University of the Sunshine Coast, students were given the opportunity to engage with leading businesses and organisations through interactive exhibitor displays.

Economic Development and Innovation Portfolio Councillor Stephen Robinson said the Sunshine Coast is well placed to capitalise on the new openings that technology and innovation would enable and the careers that would result.

“The development of the new Maroochydore City Centre and the Sunshine Coast Airport Expansion Project, along with the new Sunshine Coast University Hospital, are among a handful of game changer projects providing outstanding current and future career opportunities,” Cr Robinson said.

“Our region is also pursuing the opportunity to secure an international broadband network, which will connect the region and Queensland, directly to international markets.

“Investing in our young people and creating more opportunities for all of us is all about building resilience and certainty for the future of our communities.

“We want as many of our young residents as possible to finish their studies on the Sunshine Coast and then fill those jobs as part of pursuing a career, without having to leave their family and friends.”

ACS Foundation Executive Director John Ridge AM said the Sunshine Coast’s BiG Day In event formed part of a national series of events that reached between 6500 to 8000 students each year.

“Since we started running the BiG Day In six years ago, more than 30,000 students across Australia have gained a vital industry perspective to a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM),” Mr Ridge said.

Sunshine Coast Council has developed a range of resources as part of the Future Careers program which highlight to young people and their parents, the wealth of information and opportunities that are available to help connect and support them on their journey.

These future careers have been mapped against the education pathways across the region’s seven high-value industries to help high school students navigate and plan their education.

For more information, visit www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and search ‘Future Careers’.

Additional events/programs available to students: