How CoRE is Empowering Young Women to Become STEM Leaders

The representation of women in STEM has been steadily growing over the years, but barriers still exist. Initiatives like the CoRE Learning Model and Gamifying Earth Science are vital in breaking down these barriers by offering young women across Australia immersive, hands-on learning experiences. By connecting all our students directly with STEM industries, CoRE is educating and empowering the next generation of women in STEM careers.

We spoke with CoRE Alumni to explore how immersive learning experiences shape career trajectories for young women and pave the way for lasting systemic and cultural change in the resources sector.

Overcoming Gender Barriers in STEM Learning

STEM subjects have long been seen as male-dominated fields, particularly in industries like mining and engineering. Many young women were often discouraged from pursuing these fields because of a lack of representation. However, immersive learning pedagogies, like those offered by the CoRE Learning Foundation, are here to help change that narrative. CoRE provides practical, real experiences that are often missing in traditional classroom settings. These experiences go beyond textbooks and lectures by exposing students to the real-world applications of their education, connecting their learning to their local community and industry.

Take the story of a 2020 CoRE graduate from Lighthouse School Street Senior High School who shared how the programme made a difference in her life:

"Before joining CoRE, I would shy away from STEM because it was a 'boys' thing,' but CoRE helped build up my confidence that I could do just as well, or even better, than my male counterparts."

The CoRE Learning Model's immersive approach was designed to build confidence in any student who takes part, no matter their gender or background. CoRE shows young Australians that they can build careers in STEM fields.

Earth Science Opening New Pathways Beyond the Classroom

As part of the CoRE Learning Model, female students participate in many immersive learning activities, including project-based learning, field trips, showcases, and industry-focused events. These experiences empower young women to envision their futures in STEM roles. At CoRE, they are not just participants - they are leaders, just as they will be in the future.

In our discussions with a 2019 CoRE graduate at Kent Street, they highlighted:

"In the programme, I was exposed to life beyond the classroom walls, and I was given the opportunity to implement change by integrating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a standard in my work. Despite being a minority in STEM, gender does not dictate what I can achieve."

A Community of Inspiring Women in the Resources Industry

One of the biggest challenges for women entering STEM careers is the lack of female role models and mentors. CoRE's approach actively addresses this by developing a community of support where young women can connect with inspiring female STEM leaders in their fields.

One of our 2016 graduates of the CoRE Lighthouse School shared how her involvement in the programme helped her overcome anxieties about entering the male-dominated mining industry:

"With the guidance of CoRE and events like WIMWA, I realised that there's nothing a man can do that a woman can't, if not better."

What CoRE Means to Young Women

The CoRE Learning Model is more than just an educational programme; it's part of a movement pushing for systemic change in earth science education and in the resources sector, changing how young women are represented in STEM fields. A 2009 CoRE graduate reflected on the long-term impact:

"Programmes like CoRE are so important for feeding that hunger at a young age and getting women to believe in themselves. But I think we need to make young women aware that they are part of that change in culture."

Another of our 2016 graduates pointed out that the CoRE programme was instrumental in her development as a STEM leader:

"The CoRE learning programme was a significant element in my development as a growing, confident woman in STEM. Today I work as a Graduate Geologist for BHP Minerals, and I strongly believe CoRE was especially effective in changing my mindset on outdated mentalities about women in STEM."

As we look towards the future, it's clear that immersive learning programmes like CoRE are essential in shaping the next generation of women as leaders in STEM. By providing young women with hands-on experiences, mentorship, and opportunities to excel, we are helping to level the playing field and inspire systemic change in STEM industries.