In a significant move towards promoting inclusivity and empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) students in Australia, Junior Engineers has made a remarkable decision. The company, with the primary goal of encouraging more ATSI students to pursue STEM pathways, created the transformative program called Deadly Coders. Now, the program has been officially handed over to community governance, recognised as an Indigenous Corporation, and has a majority Indigenous board and leadership.
A New Chapter:
With a passion for nurturing young minds and ensuring a more diverse and inclusive future for technology and engineering, Deadly Coders has embarked on a new chapter under the guidance of its new CEO, Grant Maher. As a descendant of the Gumbaynggirr and Biripi people from Northern New South Wales, Grant Maher’s appointment brings a profound cultural understanding and dedication to the program’s mission.
The Significance of Community Governance:
The transition of Deadly Coders from Junior Engineers to community governance marks a pivotal moment in its journey. By placing the program’s reins in the hands of the community, it aligns perfectly with the principles of self-determination and empowerment. The Indigenous Corporation recognition symbolizes a new era, wherein the community can shape the program according to the unique needs and aspirations of ATSI students.
A Majority Indigenous Board and Governance:
With a majority Indigenous board and governance, Deadly Coders embraces diversity at its core. This representation ensures that decisions are made with a deep appreciation of the cultural nuances, challenges, and aspirations of ATSI students. By involving members who share lived experiences, the program becomes better equipped to address the specific barriers faced by Indigenous students in pursuing STEM fields.
Grant Maher’s Vision:
Grant Maher, an Engineers Australia Fellow and now the CEO of Deadly Coders, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the program. His dedication to encouraging ATSI students to explore STEM pathways, particularly in Engineering and Technology, resonates with the program’s mission. Under his leadership, Deadly Coders is poised to reach new heights and create an even more significant impact on the lives of Indigenous youth.
Impact on ATSI Students:
The handover of Deadly Coders to community governance has the potential to create a transformative impact on ATSI students across Australia. By offering free coding and robotics programs, the program equips young minds with essential 21st-century skills, nurturing their passion for technology, and inspiring them to consider careers in STEM fields. The involvement of the community fosters a sense of pride and ownership among the students, leading to increased engagement and participation in the program.
The handover of Deadly Coders from Junior Engineers to community governance, recognised as an Indigenous Corporation with a majority Indigenous board, is a momentous step towards empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Australia. With Grant Maher at the helm, the program is set to carve a path of inclusivity and innovation in the realm of technology and engineering. Through Deadly Coders, a brighter and more promising future awaits the talented young minds of Indigenous communities, as they embark on their journey into STEM pathways, paving the way for a more diverse and prosperous Australia.
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