Gladstone Central Queensland University (CQU) engineering student Alexander Bletchly, was recently awarded the annual Queensland Alumina Limited (QAL) Scholarship.

QAL Managing Director Johann van Zyl said Alexander, a first-year Bachelor of Engineering (Co-op) and Diploma of Professional Practice student, would receive $5000 per annum towards his studies.

“The annual scholarship program is highly sought after and an important part of QAL’s commitment to local education, the development of youth and the future of Gladstone.The selection of a QAL scholar is not only based on academic excellence, but also community involvement, overall personal presentation and commitment to the successful completion of studies as a full-time student at Central Queensland University,” Mr van Zyl said.

“This year’s scholarship attracted many applications, with 3 very strong applicants in particular. After much deliberation, Alexander was announced as the recipient but we also chose to award 2 $700 runner-up prizes - one each to Andrew Williams and Joshua Worley".

“By supporting our local students we are fostering local talent and making an investment in our future. All of our finalists will be able to access vacation employment and work experience at QAL to complement their studies," said Mr van Zyl.

Alexander said the QAL scholarship meant he will be able to finish his degree without a HECS debt, and will also assist in the purchasing of text books and other resources.

“It also means that I will not be required to take on extra hours at my casual job, which will mean I can concentrate on university work more,” said Mr Bletchly.

Alex’s ultimate career goal is to become an aeronautical engineer or to work for NASA in the research, design and development of space vehicles.

“The mechanical engineering degree I am currently studying is only the first step in my career aspirations. In order to achieve my goals I am looking at completing a PhD in aeronautical engineering. The QAL scholarship means that I can finish my current degree without a HECS debt which will make it easier for me to pay for the second degree.

“I appreciate QAL's continued support for the local student studying at CQU. University is not a cheap exercise and every little bit of financial support you can get is appreciated as it means less of a burden on myself and my family. I would also like to thank the runners up for their high standard of professionalism and wish them the best of luck in their studies,” said Mr Bletchly.

The QAL scholarship program has been running since 1975. It is open to CQU students whose homes are in the Port Curtis region, who are full-time first-year students proceeding from year 12 and are enrolled in one of the following QAL industry-related courses: applied science (including environmental studies), business, engineering or information technology.