In summary

  • The demand for mathematics skills in the workforce is growing, but fewer secondary students are studying advanced mathematics
  • Swinburne hosted an Industry Day for Teachers in collaboration with the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI)
  • Teachers were provided with skills and tools to inspire their students to join the diverse and sustainable STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) workforce

Industry demand for mathematically-skilled professionals is growing across Australia’s workforce, but secondary student enrolments in advanced mathematics remains at an all-time low. In response, Swinburne University of Technology is working with the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI) to equip educators with the skills and knowledge they need to encourage STEM pathways for their students.  A recent Industry Day for Teachers, held at Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus, brought teachers, educators and industry together to contribute to building a diverse and sustainable STEM workforce.

The AMSI’s 2024 Year 12 Mathematics Participation Report Card revealed Australia’s decline in mathematics participation in secondary schools, particularly in higher-level courses. Female representation remains disproportionately low, highlighting the ongoing gender inequity in STEM pathways.

Swinburne is working with AMSI to shift this narrative by empowering educators to promote STEM pathways, particularly those in mathematics, for the exciting, world-changing careers they offer.

"Swinburne is a centre of excellence in mathematics education and its real-world applications,” said Professor Federico Frascoli, Chair of Swinburne’s Department of Mathematics. “This event showcased some of our outstanding Swinburne alumni and industry partners, helping secondary teachers understand the importance of mathematics as a driver of innovation and job creation for 21st century technologies."

The Industry Day brought together teachers, educators and industry to contribute to building a diverse and sustainable STEM workforce

This year’s program was funded by the not-for-profit The Invergowrie Foundation, which supports the education of girls and women in Victoria. The program emphasised AMSI’s commitment to supporting female students from underrepresented backgrounds. The Industry Day featured presentations from university academics and industry professionals, as well as engaging Q&A panels.

Participants gained valuable insights into the rising demand for mathematics and STEM skills across diverse career paths, with a focus on educational pathways that help students reach their professional goals. The program helps teachers support and inspire their students to continue mathematics studies and pursue STEM-related careers.

“By equipping secondary teachers and career advisors with the knowledge of the opportunities in mathematics careers, we are helping to cultivate the next generation of STEM leaders,” said AMSI Director, Professor Tim Marchant. 

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