Key points
- Change is coming for the next generation, making science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) literacy critical.
- Applications for the 2025 Adult Future Shaper program are now open.
- We spoke to past Future Shapers to see how they are helping young people to build confidence, capability, and connection with STEM.
How do you solve big challenges like climate change or curing disease? What are the next big discoveries that will change life as we know it?
The answers lie with researchers and innovators, using their science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) expertise to make the world a better place.
But who will continue this work? By 2033, Australia will need 233,600 people for jobs in professional, scientific, and technical services. To set Generation Alpha on this path, we need to spark their interest in STEM now.
Key skills like problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking can help students navigate their complex world. This is why the Adult Future Shapers program recognises those who help Year 5-10 students build STEM skills.
Each year, we select five people to be Adult Future Shapers. They are parents, teachers, professionals, or community members who inspire students to build confidence, capability, and connection with STEM.
Once selected, Adult Future Shapers design their prize to either enhance their ability to teach STEM or provide resources for the young people they work with. Applications for the 2025 program have just opened. We caught up with three of our 2024 Adult Future Shapers to see the positive impact they are having.
Jen Malone – founder of the Young Astronauts Club, Far North QLD
Jen inspires students to dream big and reach beyond the stars. Facilitating her daughter’s interest in space, Jen established a Young Astronauts Club which now has over 70 members.
As her Future Shaper prize, Jen selected moon floor mats, a giant inflatable moon, and a Lego model of the International Space Station.
“The 'wow's of excitement were fantastic and [the resources] have provided such wonderful learning opportunities for the kids, especially with the Artemis II & III missions to the Moon coming up in the next few years!” Jen said.
Elise Thornthwaite – teacher and family educator, Tiwi Island
Elise creates culturally relevant experiences for students and their families that build curiosity and problem-solving skills.
“Our activities include math and science exploration through natural materials, and cultural activities that connect to Tiwi knowledge and traditions,” Elise said.
Elise received classroom resources, play-based learning materials, and a drone for Learning on Country sessions.
“The drone offers a way for students and families to connect with their land in a meaningful, engaging way. I expected these resources to enrich the children's learning experiences, and so far, they have done exactly that,” Elise said.
Sharni Silvestri – STEM teacher, regional WA
Sharni encourages her primary students to tackle real-world challenges with STEM. Outside the classroom, she also organises an annual ‘STEMathon’ for her community.
Sharni’s Future Shaper prize was a contribution towards a set of LEGO Spike Prime robotics kits. She calls it a “gamechanger.”
“Students who had never engaged with robotics are starting to explore and experiment. We are just at the start of our journey with LEGO robotics, and my next challenge is to upskill myself so I can learn alongside the students,” Sharni said.
Applying for Adult Future Shapers
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students, girls, students from lower opportunity areas, or regional schools are all groups that are underrepresented in STEM. We love receiving applications where candidates help students from at least one of these groups to build their STEM skills.
“I encourage anyone passionate about making a difference in young people's lives, especially through STEM education, to apply,” Sharni said.
Applications close on Thursday, 5 December 2024.
STEM Together is powered by CSIRO and BHP Foundation.