Good turnout for Go WEST project

The Go Women in Engineering, Science and Technology (Go WEST) project commenced 2009 with activities involving USQ staff and students, with online access for external students, and Engineers from Toowoomba Regional Council. 

The GO WEST USQ equity funded project started in 2008 to mentor female students and staff in non-traditional areas of study, providing support for female USQ students and professionals in the discipline areas of Science (including Maths), Engineering and Technology (SET) where females are traditionally under-represented.

Project team leader, Dr Jacquie McDonald said that the event had attracted women from across the University and community.

'One of the aims of the Go WEST project is to make USQ female students feel accepted, supported and achieve success in disciplines where they are traditionally under-presented,' she said.

'The March Meet and Greet event brought together over 30 USQ women staff, students and guests in an informal atmosphere of fun activities to build across institution networks.'

Former USQ Engineering student Nikki Mead gave an entertaining presentation titled

'My study journey at USQ and life as a female engineer", then participants worked collaboratively to identify priority issues and activities for 2009.

'Go WEST's May activity included an information session for both staff and students regarding the role of industry experience and mentoring as part of their personal and professional development,' added Education lecturer and Go WEST member Petrea Redmond.

Katrina Vagg from student services provided tips and discussed the processes for accessing support for both industry experience and mentoring within USQ.

The event also gave students the opportunity to voice their concerns according to Bachelor of Science Human Biology student, Miri Tukana who thanked Go WEST for listening to students' opinions.

'Work experience was one of our concerns that was written down in our March group discussions.'

For more information on the GO WEST project visit the website or contact Dr Jacquie McDonald on (07) 4631 2314.

Media Contact:  Josh Ada, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2559