Celebrating 10 years of the Boeing Scholarship, RMIT and Boeing continue to explore new frontiers in aerospace, STEM and research.
The world’s largest aerospace company, Boeing is an innovation force to be reckoned with. A leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners and defence, space and security systems, Boeing is a hub for the brightest engineering, science and information technology minds.
RMIT is an education leader in engineering, computer science and information technology, preparing students in these fields for the global world of work. Together, these organisations have embarked on the RMIT-Boeing Strategic Relationship, a multi-year partnership dedicated to transformational education, career and research opportunities.
In leading edge research, the partnership focuses on sustainable solutions to aerospace challenge through biomimicry, an approach to design inspired by nature and its processes.
In addition to research and innovation, the agreement also seeks to provide graduate students with career opportunities in aerospace and other high-tech industries.
“Embracing ongoing innovation, and investing in productivity through training, skilling, and automation are the keys to the continued success of Australia’s manufacturing industry,” said Adnan Raghdo, Director of engineering at Boeing Aerostructures Australia. “It’s partnership like the one with RMIT which helps us do just that.”
Boeing has also provided significant financial support for RMIT student projects, travel bursaries, awards and community outreach programs. Now in its 10th year, the Boeing Scholarship has made it possible for students to receive crucial support, excel in their studies and embark on exciting careers.
Boeing is proud to invest in the next generation of aerospace engineering through the RMIT scholarship program. Boeing’s relationship with RMIT spans decades and has supported RMIT through its STEM program for over a decade, with the goal of developing critical skills for the workforce today and tomorrow.
The next generation
These bright minds got their start in the industry thanks to the Boeing Scholarship.
Meet Johanna
Graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) (Honours), Johanna credits the Boeing Scholarship with putting her on the right career path.
“The Boeing Scholarship made me look at the aerospace industry for career opportunities. Before receiving the scholarship, I didn’t know Boeing had a presence in Australia. Now my career at Boeing has spanned eight years and been both challenging and rewarding.”
Starting out as a graduate engineer, Johanna specialised in wing design and structural analysis. Her work can be found on the 737MAX, 787 Dreamliner and the 777X. Johanna has now transitioned to the research and development team – Boeing Research & Technology Australia, specialising in robotics and automation processes for airplane builds.
“As an engineer, I was looking for growth opportunities because I really wanted to use more of my RMIT degree. Mechanical engineering has tremendous technical breadth, and I wanted to explore those subjects and concepts that I wasn’t utilising in aircraft design. Thankfully Boeing offers so many engineering roles, so I was able to pursue a different area of my field and stay with a company I love.”
In this next phase of her career, Johanna looks to mentor more young women like herself and inspire them to explore high tech careers.
“I have the opportunity to inspire and foster young women in STEM. An engineering career is so rewarding. I want to continue to show women that they can be strong and capable tech leaders, encourage them to follow their passion, and through that passion, create the future they envision. A career in STEM is a platform for changing the world.”
Meet Lucas
Studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering) (Honours)/Bachelor of Commerce, Lucas was thrilled to receive the Boeing Scholarship.
“I’ve always had a genuine interest in the aerospace industry and followed Boeing closely for years, so being told that my scholarship application was successful, it was one of the most satisfying and fulfilling moments of my life.”
Relocating from Mildura to Melbourne to study at RMIT, the Boeing Scholarship has allowed Lucas to focus on his studies and achieve his goals. It’s also had some unexpected benefits.
“Getting the opportunity to tour Boeing’s facilities and network with key employees was a life-changing experience. Also, the Boeing Scholarship has given me greater self-belief and the knowledge that I can achieve anything I put my mind to.”
Over halfway through his studies, Lucas remains grateful for what the Boeing Scholarship has helped him accomplish.
“I would like to say a massive thank you to Boeing for not only the support they have given me, but also for inspiring me to become the best engineer I can be. I am very grateful for this scholarship and I can’t thank them enough for helping me in my journey as an aspiring engineer.”
Meet Kanika
Studying a Bachelor of Information Technology, Kanika’s mindset has changed thanks to the Boeing Scholarship.
“The Boeing Scholarship has transformed my way of thinking. It gave me a real boost and opened my eyes to what’s possible when you work hard. I’m now someone who sees opportunities and tries to say yes to every one that comes my way.”
Following her incredible passion for computers, Kanika was excited to begin her course. However, juggling study and work proved difficult to manage.
“My dad was supporting our whole family, so I needed to work, but it cut into my study time. I knew I needed external help to complete my course, so I applied for the Boeing Scholarship and it changed everything. I left my job, dedicated myself to my studies and got excellent grades.”
Kanika also pursued roles as an RMIT Tutor and Lab Assistant, helping IT undergraduates to succeed in their courses. Clearly on a roll, Kanika recently began an exciting one year internship as a software engineer, an opportunity she’s delighted about “because there’s always something new to learn.”
“This scholarship has opened so many doors and opportunities for me. It has boosted my confidence and, because I have been given so much, I’m now paying it forward by giving back to help students like me. Thank you for supporting me and letting me know what I’m capable of.”
