At Alpha HPA, we are dedicated to empowering young minds by opening doors to the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. The importance of STEM goes beyond the classroom; it is foundational to our team, our industry, and our commitment to the Gladstone community. STEM education nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills – attributes essential for a workforce ready to meet the demands of tomorrow’s industries. Celebrating STEM means celebrating the future potential of our region, and we are grateful to support initiatives that inspire this next generation of innovators.

This National STEM Day, we are proud to spotlight our support for STEM initiatives like the Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) at Chanel College – a co-educational, Gladstone-based secondary school. The H2GP is an international program where students design, build and race hydrogen-powered, model-size vehicles, combining the excitement of racing with hands-on engineering teamwork, and environmental education. For us it is a great blend of the real-world applications of STEM and the spirit of innovation. For students here, the H2GP is a platform to explore next-generation technology and gain experience in sustainable energy solutions that are shaping our future.

Our sponsorship of Chanel College’s H2GP team demonstrates our commitment to STEM education in Gladstone. We recognise that supporting local schools is important in building a skilled, knowledgeable workforce for the future. As part of our sponsorship, Alpha HPA team members, including our engineers and technical industry specialists, visit Chanel College each week to help students customise their H2GP model car. Through these mentoring sessions, we guide students in developing and refining their hydrogen-powered vehicles, teaching them about the engineering process, material selection, and energy efficiency. Each session brings theory to life, showing students how classroom knowledge translates to practical skills, with the end goal of preparing for a competitive but fun race day.

STEM initiatives that are delivered in collaboration with industry, play a crucial role in shaping and inspiring our workforce of tomorrow so we are proud to be a part of this vital ecosystem. In regions like Gladstone, where STEM skilled workers are increasingly in demand, hands-on programs like H2GP are important for equipping students with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills they will need in the evolving job market. This connection between education and industry is why Alpha HPA champions STEM, recognising it as key to a sustainable regional workforce.

Alpha HPA’s People, Talent and Capability Manager Melanie Dawson says, “Our team members find it incredibly rewarding to engage with young talent through programs like the H2GP. Supporting STEM skills isn’t just valuable to our company’s future workforce, it’s crucial for the future workforce of Gladstone and for fostering a skilled, adaptable workforce capable of meeting tomorrows challenges”.

As we look ahead, our Gladstone – based facility designed to produce high-purity alumina for cleaner, greener technologies, like lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, will be in operations by 2027, creating 120 local jobs. Our facility will offer roles in engineering, operations, project management, laboratory technology, research and development, and other critical positions. By supporting programs like H2GP, we are helping ensure that Gladstone has a workforce prepared for these advanced opportunities.

By investing in STEM education, we are not only contributing to regional job growth but also supporting a sustainable workforce that will drive innovation and industry in Gladstone and beyond. STEM education aligns with the transformation of Gladstone from a traditional industrial hub into a cleaner, greener region – a transition supported by all levels of government for a sustainable future. At Alpha HPA, we are looking forward to being a part of this transformation, contributing to an innovative, industry-ready workforce that will drive growth economically, environmental, and socially in Gladstone and beyond.

Media contact: Ellie Blumel – +61 (0) 448 122 948 or eblumel@alphahpa.com.au