Engineers Australia is using National Science Week 2026 to showcase engineering to young Australians through hands-on activities designed to highlight the profession’s role in creativity, innovation and problem-solving.
Running from August 15 to 23, National Science Week will feature events delivered by Engineers Australia’s state divisions, members and volunteers across the country. Activities include a Hydraulic Arm Challenge, where participants build and operate a mechanical arm.
The challenge was developed through Engineers Australia’s Inspiring Future Engineers program in partnership with the University of Wollongong and Surface Mine, with support from the Australian Government as part of National Science Week.
Engineers Australia CEO Romily Madew AO said the week provided an opportunity to make engineering concepts more accessible to students, parents and communities.
“By showing young people how engineers turn theoretical ideas into practical solutions, we hope to spark an interest in them to consider a career in the profession,” Madew said.
She said engineering was involved in addressing challenges across areas including transport, digital technology, infrastructure and the energy transition.
“We need to ensure our future workforce pipeline is ready to build and operate the systems and technologies of the future,” Madew said.
Madew also pointed to misconceptions about engineering as a potential barrier to young people considering the profession, particularly the belief that engineers must be experts in mathematics.
“There are more pathways into engineering than you may think,” she said, encouraging young people to build foundational skills and keep future career options open.
According to data cited by Engineers Australia from the STEM Equity Monitor, 30 per cent of young girls reported being interested in engineering, compared with 60 per cent of boys.
Madew said initiatives such as National Science Week could help demonstrate the range of skills involved in engineering and encourage broader participation in the profession.
“National Science Week allows us to demonstrate that engineering is a profession grounded in creativity, innovation and people-focused thinking that improves lives and helps communities thrive,” she said.
