PLS and CoRE Partner to Bring STEM Learning to Port Hedland Students

We’re thrilled to welcome PLS as an Eucalyptus Sponsor in Port Hedland. Their support is helping bring the ‘Powering Tomorrow’s Innovators: Port Hedland STEM Learning Program’ to life, giving local students hands-on STEM experiences and connecting learning to real-world careers.

Hands-On Learning for Students and Teachers

Thanks to PLS, 300 students from Baler Primary School will take part in immersive projects that explore lithium and the resources sector, helping them understand sustainable energy solutions and the skills needed for future careers. Teachers are also benefiting, with professional development opportunities that strengthen STEM delivery across the school.

“While CoRE’s programs have been inspiring students in the Pilbara for years, this is the first time an organisation has formally partnered to help expand their reach,” said Sandra McInnes, Chief People and Sustainability Officer, PLS. “PLS is proud to be working alongside the CoRE Learning Foundation to bring STEM education to life in Port Hedland. This is more than just learning, it’s about sparking curiosity, building confidence and opening doors to the jobs of the future.”

Linking Classroom Learning to Industry

PLS is a leading global producer of lithium, with a diversified portfolio of assets and strategic partnerships in the rapidly growing battery materials sector. PLS owns 100% of the world’s largest independent hard-rock lithium operation, the Pilgangoora Operation located 140 kilometres southeast of Port Hedland, and the Colina Lithium Project in Brazil. PLS is also integrated into the lithium value chain through its joint venture with POSCO in South Korea, which manufactures battery-grade lithium hydroxide. With this scale, high-quality assets, and commitment to advancing the global energy transition, PLS brings a unique perspective to STEM learning, showing students in Port Hedland how the work they’re exploring today links to industry opportunities tomorrow.

“Our program empowers young people in Port Hedland to explore the industries that shape their community and the unique environment they call home,” said Suzy Urbaniak OAM, Co-Founder and CoRE Lead, CoRE Learning Foundation. “Through immersive, hands-on learning, we bring STEM to life in a way that’s relevant and exciting. We foster an inspiring learning environment that’s both meaningful and purposeful - helping students understand how their education connects to future opportunities in the resources sector and broader industries.”

Building Pathways for the Next Generation

Through this partnership, industry and education are coming together to build real pathways for the next generation. With PLS’ support, CoRE will be able to expand into more classrooms in Port Hedland, opening the door for even more students to develop practical STEM skills, confidence, and curiosity to shape their futures.