Pilbara CoRE Academy launched at Tom Price Senior High School to forge pathways into resources sector

A new education initiative in Tom Price is set to bridge the gap between classroom learning and careers in the resources sector, giving students real-world STEM experiences and direct industry connections. The Pilbara CoRE Academy, launched at Tom Price Senior High School, is designed to equip Year 11 and 12 students with practical earth science knowledge, career exploration opportunities and flexible pathways into mining and related industries. The program is led by the CoRE Learning Foundation and backed by industry leaders, aiming to increase the number of STEM-skilled graduates in regional Western Australia. CoRE Learning Foundation co-founder and lead, Suzy Urbaniak emphasised the importance of the Tom Price pilot program, saying it provided students with meaningful career pathways linked to the Pilbara’s dominant industries. “It’s fantastic that Pilbara students will have more STEM pathways with strong links to the resource sector, which is so important to the region,” she said. The academy is the result of a collaboration between Curtin University’s Trailblazer Program, the CoRE Learning Foundation, the resources industry and local schools. Initial funding came from Curtin University’s Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer and the Commonwealth Government’s Trailblazer Universities programs. A new three-year partnership with Rio Tinto will expand the academy’s reach, offering students access to industry mentors, hands-on learning, and pathways into careers in mining and sustainability. Rio Tinto managing director of rail, port and core services Richard Cohen said the company’s involvement reflected its commitment to fostering local talent. “We are excited to support the launch of the Pilbara CoRE Academy, which will strengthen STEM pathways for students living in the Pilbara region,” he said. “This initiative will nurture and support the next generation of innovative thinkers and problem-solvers who could shape our future workforce.”