National Science Week: STEM Stars share passion with Townsville State High School students

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Four “STEM Stars,” inventor and 2018 NSW Young Australian of the Year Macinley Butson, shark researcher Dr Jodie Rummer, JCU PhD student César Herrera and AIMS Technology Development Engineering team leader Melanie Olsen spoke to students directly about their career paths before mingling and answering their many questions.

Townsville State High Science Head of Department Sarah Chapman said the speakers showed students what they can achieve in science, even at a young age.

“The STEM Stars event provides real opportunities for students to connect and hear the human story of STEM,” she said.

The STEM Stars said they were happy to visit the school and speak to students, who were extremely interested in the presentation.

“I’ve known Sarah for a little while now; I met her when I was in Year 8 at a science competition and she was one of the teachers who was there,” Ms Butson said.

“It was one of those instances where we both had a common interest and they’re the connections you make, and are able to rely on later in life.”

“It was probably the most involved school I’ve had; it was awesome,” Ms Olsen added.

The STEM Stars said it wasn’t just the students who gained a positive experience from the event.

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“I already have my career but I was feeling inspired just hearing everyone’s journeys and their passion and curiosity,” Dr Rummer said.

“We’re at a time right now where we need science and technology more than ever; our world population is reaching a tipping point and are we going to be able to sustain the world population with our current technology? No. We really need science and technology and the genius minds around the world to save our planet and save ourselves.”