With technological advances like generative AI and robotics driving many of the biggest innovations of our time, it’s so important that young people today explore opportunities in the technology industry. But do they have the support they need to grow into the next generation of tech leaders?
What is STEM and why is it important?
STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and maths. These fields share focus on innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Together they make up a popular and fast-growing industry.
The Australian government has set an ambitious target of filling 650,000 STEM jobs across the nation by 2030[1]. However, new research[2] indicates that despite strong interest in STEM subjects among students, there’s a gap in resources and support that limits their ability to pursue these pathways effectively with only half (53%) of Australian secondary school students feeling prepared for a STEM career.
STEM education at Amazon
At Amazon, we have launched three initiatives designed to inspire students and support teachers in building the critical capabilities needed for 21st century STEM success. Take a look at our programs.
1. Immersion Days at Amazon Fulfilment Centres
For primary aged school students (years 3-6), an Immersion Day at an Amazon fulfilment centre in Sydney or Melbourne provides a day of industry immersion into digital technology, robotics, engineering, literacy, and career pathway education. Participating students receive a tour of the state-of-the-art fulfilment centre before an interactive robotics workshop.
In this workshop students code miniature Amazon Drive robots to solve a problem that they have been intentionally exposed to on the FC Tour, working in pairs and with the mentorship of Amazon volunteers to design and run an effective solution.
2. Immersion Days at Amazon Corporate Offices
For high school students (years 7-10), an Immersion Day at Amazon corporate office in Sydney and Melbourne provides students with an introduction to careers in digital technology and helps them to develop practical skills relevant to the modern workforce.
Participating students take part in an interactive Career Connections Workshop designed to provide exposure to STEM job opportunities and pathways. Following this, students participate in Amazon’s Innovation & Working Backwards Session dividing them into teams – each with an Amazon mentor – to solve a guided challenge that requires innovative thinking.
3. Guided Teacher training
Recognising the critical role teachers play in STEM education, Amazon has co-developed a free Teacher Training course for educators in partnership with Code for Schools. The course is designed to equip teachers with the tools and confidence needed to deliver a 16-hour "Introduction to Digital Technologies" unit in their classrooms.
Hosted at Amazon’s warehouses, teachers are exposed to the real-life applications of the content they are learning through the course.
Teachers receive ongoing support from Amazon’s computer science professionals, who act as mentors throughout the program. This mentorship includes in-person classroom visits, regular check-ins to boost teacher confidence, on-demand assistance, and tailored support for advanced students. The aim is to ensure teachers are not only trained, but continuously supported as they implement the curriculum, enhancing both their skills and their students’ learning experiences.
[1] Mapping out Australia's path to tech jobs future, Australian Government, 2022
[2] Amazon’s research was conducted independently by Antenna Research from 29 July 2024 to 23 August 2024, amongst a survey poll of 1000 students and 300 teachers, gathering insights into attitudes toward STEM education and resourcing in Australia. Further research insights available upon request.
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