Prizm Engineering: Investing in Local Youth and Inspiring Tomorrow’s Engineers

At Prizm Engineering, our commitment to Gladstone runs deeper than just project deliverables and engineering innovativeness it is about empowering the future of our community. In 2024, we reaffirmed our mission to actively invest in the next generation of engineers, drafters, and project leaders through immersive student placement opportunities. A year later, that mission has not only grown but also strengthened.

Being locals is not just a point of pride; it is our foundation. We not only live and work here, but we also actively contribute to the growth of Gladstone and Central Queensland. We believe that our future engineering workforce should be drawn from our local region. As part of our broader strategy, we have focused on engaging with and developing young talent who aspire to build a career in Engineering. By offering practical, skills-based opportunities, we believe we are helping young people envision a future in engineering right here in Central Queensland.

Whether it is mentoring a Year 11 student stepping into a professional environment for the first time or guiding a university student through the final stages of their degree, Prizm takes an individualised approach to every placement. Each student is offered exposure tailored to their interests, combined with the support, supervision, and encouragement needed to thrive.

Real Stories, Real Impact

In addition to benefiting students, the placements energise our team too. One of the most inspiring journeys this year was that of Mohammed Jamali (Moe), a mechanical engineering student from CQ University. Moe joined us for a 12-week placement as part of his Bachelor of Engineering (CC31) program and quickly made a positive impression. With two scholarships under his belt and an incredible work ethic, Moe brought curiosity, drive, and fresh ideas into our team. After completing his placement, Moe graduated with First Class Honours.

Supporting his journey was a privilege, and watching his confidence and capability grow was a valid reward.

In March and April, we hosted Luan Jordaan and Tian Momberg two bright and eager Year 11 students for a school holiday placement. Their enthusiasm and commitment were immediately apparent from the start. Tian, who initially was not sure about his career path, left his placement with a clear goal: to pursue a future in electrical drafting.

“Tian’s placement proved pivotal,” said his parents. “It gave him direction and helped him discover a strong interest in the technical side of engineering.”

Their feedback reaffirmed why we do what we do offering students the chance to explore, ask questions, and gain confidence in a real-world setting.

Another excellent example arose from a partnership with Clearview Christian College and the Rotary Youth Exchange. Through this collaboration, we had the opportunity to host Sofia, a Brazilian exchange student with an interest in both engineering and project management.

“The experience helped Sofia build her confidence,” said Michelle Gorrie of Rotary. “It was a new and exciting opportunity for her, and one that she embraced wholeheartedly.”

Melanie Loosemore, principal at Clearview Christian College, confirmed that Sofia’s work sampling placement at Prizm has further solidified her aspirations for a career in either engineering or architecture.

A Broader View of Engineering

For university student Andre Marais, who is currently in his third year, second semester, studying mechanical engineering with an aerospace engineering major, a returning student placement at Prizm has been a valuable experience, and he has been with us for two years, approaching three. His placement at Prizm helped bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice.

"University gave me tools and frameworks," he explained, "but at Prizm, I learned how engineering works in the real world. It is not just about design, it is budgeting, client relationships, and learning on the go."

He appreciated the wide variety of experiences, from visiting water treatment plants and industrial sites to analysing energy efficiency in HVAC systems. He also discovered that engineers often wear many hats, from technical expert to communicator and problem-solver.

"It changed how I see engineering," Andre shared. "It is a constant learning process and it is far more dynamic and people-focused than I first thought."

Mentoring Future Trades and Technicians

Caelan Elliot, a local Year 12 student, also undertook his first block of work experience at Prizm. His father, Mick, noted how impactful the experience was, not just in confirming Caelan’s interest in design and mechanical work, but in showing him that engineering is not a one-size-fits-all path.

“He got to work on genuine projects for the smelter and felt like he was contributing,” Mick said. “It helped him see both the creative and practical sides of engineering, and now he is applying for mechanical apprenticeships.”

That kind of lightbulb moment is what we aim for in every placement.

Beyond the Placement: Community Connection

While our placement program is a central focus, our community involvement goes even further. This year, we were proud to attend the Gladstone Careers Expo at the GECC and the Calliope State High School Senior Pathways Information Evening, where we engaged with over 1,000 students. These events ignite interest in STEM and open young eyes to the opportunities available right here in regional Queensland.

As Gerowyn Lacaze, Principal of Calliope State High School, shared: "Prizm Engineering supports young people by providing valuable information on career pathways, helping to inspire and encourage students to pursue their chosen futures actively. They work with our school, providing relevant industry knowledge to inform our students of options in the real world. Prizm’s sponsorship of a prize at Awards Night provides valuable support to a student pursuing an engineering pathway, enabling them to progress toward achieving their aspirations.”

Our Co-op student program continues to thrive, delivering ongoing mentoring and skill-building that aligns with tertiary study requirements. These programs strengthen professional growth while creating a pipeline of bright future engineers who are already familiar with our values and approach.

Every student at Prizm receives proper induction, PPE, and support for site visits. We view each placement as a genuine opportunity, as it is often the first meaningful connection for students to the industry. And that first connection can be the spark that changes the course of a career.

In the academic space, we proudly maintained our engineering award sponsorships for Year 12 students at two local high schools, recognising the top achievers in engineering studies. Along with a financial award, each student was invited to Prizm Engineering for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience a glimpse into the future they could help shape.

Why It Matters — And What Is Next

At Prizm, we believe the most meaningful contribution a business can make is not just to deliver great work, but to leave a legacy. By mentoring, guiding, and championing local talent, we are helping shape that legacy for Gladstone.

Every student who walks through our doors brings new perspectives, challenges us to think differently, and reminds us why nurturing future professionals is so important. As one parent shared:

“This kind of industry partnership is invaluable. It helps young people make real decisions about their futures.”

Clearview Principal Mel emphasised the value of supported work sampling experiences for students, noting that the more opportunities we create early on, the stronger the foundations will be for future traineeship and apprenticeship partnerships.

Investing in our incredible region benefits everyone involved.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to providing more opportunities, forging new partnerships, and continuing to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a sense of community spirit in Gladstone’s youth.

Because when we invest in the next generation academically, creatively, and professionally we do not just build great engineers; we build a better Gladstone.