Central Queensland University has a record number of students working in industry through its Engineering Co-op Program this year.

A total of 56 students are currently working in paid work experience positions from Brisbane to Mt Isa. The previous record was 54 in 2001.

Students will work for six months of the year – generally from January to June.

A total of six students are working in Mt Isa – a record for that city – doubling the previous high of three.

Three students are working in Xstrata Copper’s Mount Isa Mines and three students are working with CS Energy at their Mica Creek Power Station.

Program coordinator Rod Edwards said the support of industries across the State has been overwhelming this year.

In addition to the companies in Mt Isa, Main Roads in Brisbane, Emerald, Mackay and Rockhampton; and Ergon Energy in Brisbane and Rockhampton have employed three or more students this year.

“The Co-op program at CQU is a unique four-year program which combines the rigour of an accredited academic program with periods of paid, supervised and relevant experience in the workplace,” Mr Edwards said.

Students undertake two six-month periods of approved industrial experience during their third and four years of the program.

“CQU is one of three universities in Australia with 100% graduate employment through its engineering programs.”.

Ten first year engineering co-op students will be presented with Faculty Co-op Scholarships this Friday at 1pm, as part of the Engineering Induction Program.

Photo above: Xstrata Copper’s Mount Isa Mine’s work placement employees Bradley Howland, Ross McKenzie and Peter Vermeulen on-site near the copper ore crushing plant in Mt Isa.

Photo left: CS Energy work placement employees at their Mica Creek Power Station, Mt Isa, are Ben Turner, Briony Black and Silas Briskey.