From the CoRE Vault: Aaron Meads’ Journey into Geology

Aaron Meads didn’t have a clear career path when he started high school. Today, he’s a Drill and Blast Engineer at Rio Tinto - a trajectory shaped by the hands-on learning experiences he had through CoRE at Kent Street Senior High School.

Field Trips that Shape Futures

Aaron reflects on the role CoRE played in guiding his career:

“The field trips were an integral part of my learning during high school and in shaping my future career. I had no clear direction during my first three years of high school. It wasn't until I studied Earth and Environmental Sciences in years 11 and 12, that I began to realise a career as a Geologist would be a perfect fit for me. The field trips, which included seeing active volcanoes and lava fields in Hawaii, as well as the various geology throughout Western Australia, allowed us to build on our classroom knowledge and gain real world experience. It was on these trips that I began to truly understand what working as a Geologist would involve. If it weren’t for the experiences I had during CoRE that were facilitated by Suzy, I would not be working in the field I am today.” – Aaron Meads, CoRE alumnus

Through field-based learning, Aaron experienced geology in a way textbooks alone could never provide - observing processes, collecting data, and connecting theory to the world around him.

Turning Experience into Expertise

After completing school, Aaron transitioned directly into the mining industry, applying the practical knowledge he gained during CoRE. In his current role, he manages drill and blast operations, making critical decisions that ensure safety, efficiency, and precision on-site.

His story illustrates how early exposure to real-world STEM experiences can spark curiosity, build confidence, and reveal career paths that students might not have imagined.

The Lasting Impact of CoRE

For Aaron, CoRE wasn’t just a program - it was a launchpad. It drove curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that continue to guide him today. Programs like CoRE show that giving students the chance to explore STEM in action can open doors to rewarding and unexpected career opportunities.

Discover more about how CoRE connects students with real-world STEM pathways.