Unitywater scholarships boost Sunshine Coast students' careers

Unitywater has awarded $10,000 scholarships to two University of Sunshine Coast students, with the opportunity including three months of paid work experience over each summer break through Unitywater’s Undergraduate Vacation Program.

Unitywater Executive Manager, People Culture and Safety, Kenan Hibberd said the scholarships are about bolstering students with hands-on experience and setting them up for success in future careers in water.

“We have seen some wonderful students come to us through the scholarship program who gain valuable experience in their field of expertise in the vacation program and then go on to be successful in gaining further employment with us in the graduate development program,” he said.

“Unitywater is a major employer and service provider in the region that actively works to support students and the bright stars of the future by offering them fulfilling career paths in the region they call home.”

The Unitywater Engineering Scholarship went to Sunshine Coast campus student Jenna Hopp and the Unitywater Bright Future Scholarship went to Caboolture campus student Jarryd Elliott.

“We look forward to welcoming Jenna and Jarryd to Unitywater and sharing their skills and passion within our organisation,” Hibberd said.

Bringing it home

Hopp, who is about to finish her fourth year of a five-year double degree in engineering and environmental science, said the scholarship will complement her studies and she looks forward to applying its lessons within the industry.

“Growing up in rural north Queensland and experiencing first-hand the importance of primary production such as farming and its close relationships with resources like water has given me an appreciation for how its supply and management is essential for everyday living,” she said.

“Working in an industry that deals with water management, supply systems and maintenance I would hope to find rewarding as you service members of your community as well as ensure duty of care to the environment.

“I have been eager to engage in work experience throughout my degree and am excited for vacation work with Unitywater because not only will I be exposed to the workplace but also in a field I am interested in continuing. 

“I look forward to being able to take the skills I have learnt at university to the workplace where I can continue to learn and improve upon them.”

Looking to the future

Elliott, who is soon to finish his second year of a three-year degree in information and communications technology, said the scholarship will aid him in continuing his studies and help him achieve his career goals.

“Upon graduating my career goal is to apply the knowledge and skills learnt to contribute to local communities and create a safer and more sustainable future for generations to come,” he said.

“Having this amazing opportunity to work with Unitywater allows me to achieve this goal, as they hold the same values in creating a safer environment. 

“This scholarship assists me greatly as it offers further opportunities to learn and grow as a future IT professional with Unitywater. It is a great honour and privilege to be awarded this scholarship and I am truly grateful.”