Subs in Schools – GPA Sponsors Nexus-X1

At GPA we are passionate about developing the next generation of engineers and are particularly committed to growing the number of young women pursuing STEM education and careers. In line with this commitment, we were thrilled to be asked to sponsor Nexus-X1. This team of students from Wilderness School in Adelaide are gearing up to head to Perth for the STEM WA MateROV National Competition.

As part of our sponsorship, two of our junior engineers, Hiba and Jordyn, visited the team to provide insights into engineering careers for young women, transitioning into industry, and some engineering expertise to help optimise the team’s submarine design.

Nexus-1’s Team Leader, Zara spoke to us about the visit:

Why did Nexus-X1 want to compete in the STEM WA MateROV Competition?

The STEM WA MateROV Competition enables students to design, build and market a company through their product, a submarine. We wanted to compete because it provides valuable insight into potential future careers in both STEM and business. The competition’s strict policies, deadlines and professional expectations have given us a realistic experience of working within industry environments. Nexus-X1 is also an all-girl team and we are proud to represent the future of women in STEM innovation.

What have you learnt from the program?

Competing in the competition has taught us the importance of organisation and teamwork. One of our key criteria is Project Management and Collaboration, which has helped us develop real world skills that go beyond what we learn in the classroom. Through this, we have learnt how to manage deadlines, delegate roles, communicate effectively and solve problems under pressure. We’ve also gained valuable engineering and project management experience, including designing, testing and improving our ROV. These skills like planning, leadership and technical thinking are things we will be able to use in future studies and careers.

How is GPA’s sponsorship helping the team?

GPA’s sponsorship has provided the team with valuable expert advice. Our lead engineer, Shaya, has received professional feedback on our submarine’s buoyancy and propeller guard designs, helping us refine our ROV’s performance and safety features. GPA’s sponsorship has also helped Nexus-X1 cover financial costs, including flights, accommodation, parts and materials for the ROV and our Trade Displays.

What were your key takeaways from meeting Hiba and Jordyn?

Meeting Hiba and Jordyn gave us valuable insight into their career journeys as graduates in Mechanical and Chemical Engineering. They shared their experiences transitioning from university to industry and gave us advice on how to make the most of opportunities in STEM. Hearing from women who have successfully started careers in engineering was motivating and helped us see the real-world impact of the skills we’re developing through this competition.