Central Queensland University received a US$7,500 donation this week from the Bechtel Corporation, one of the world's leading engineering, construction, and project management companies. Ian Meares, General Manager of Mining and Metals/Asia Pacific Region, said the scholarship reflected his commitment to higher education in the region and that the funding was intended for engineering and materials management students. He anticipated that "this was just the beginning of a long and meaningful relationship with Central Queensland University." Deputy Vice Chancellor Gary Anido and CQU Gladstone Head-of-Campus Bob Prater welcomed a team of four Bechtel officers and Gladstone Mayor Peter Corones to the marina campus Monday to provide a tour of CQU's Process Engineering and Light Metals research facilities and explain CQU's commitment to local partnerships. "It's wonderful to have Bechtel recognize the achievements and potential of our students and staff," said Prater. "We see many opportunities – some just months away -- to work closely with Bechtel in the region." Professor Elizabeth Taylor, Dean of The James Goldston Faculty of Engineering and Physical Systems, and Senior Lecturer Ken Dooley of the Faculty of Business and Law provided more specific information to Bechtel regarding course structures, research projects and training programs that link CQU faculties with industry and government. Taylor explained the university's Project-Based Learning undergraduate program and the Co-operative Bachelor of Engineering program. Dooley said the university would be able to provide assistance and training for purchasing and materials management.

Bechtel, a privately owned company based in San Francisco, has a significant presence in Australia, especially Gladstone where Bechtel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd is located. It constructed InterGen's Millmerran Power Plant, the first fully privatised power plant in Queensland, Australia, and one of the most economical to operate in the world.

Student Association President Gary McMurtrie and Mayor Peter Corones were encouraged to see that Bechtel's commitment to community was extended to Central Queensland University because of its value as an institution that focuses on its students, regional research issues and contributions to the sustainability of the communities with which is engages.

"This was a generous first step in developing our networking with Bechtel. We're already engaged in recruitment activities and we're both actively investigating other projects to collaborate on that will respond to the needs of many more Central Queenslanders," a university spokesman said.

Photo One: Pictured are, from left to right: Eddie Farbotko Gladstone Manager, Bechtel Services; John Burdekin, Managing Director Bechtel Services; Ian Meares, General Manager, Mining and Metals Asia Pacific Region; and Warren Thorpe, Director of PELM.

Photo Two. Head of Gladstone Campus, Bob Prater, with Bechtel officers.