Only one in five Central Queenslanders embarking on information technology careers is female, but a lunchtime event this week (Thursday, April 1) was held to help redress the situation.

Women in Technology co-hosted an information session with Central Queensland University to promote its 2004 Scholarship and Awards program.

Details of the program were video-conferenced between CQU campuses in Rockhampton, Gladstone, Mackay and Bundaberg.

The event was designed to inform women in regional areas of the opportunities available to them through the scholarship program. Female students at the University, TAFE colleges and high schools were a special target audience.

Senior lecturer in CQU's School of Information Technology, Dr Kathy Egea, said the event aimed to make local students, businesses and community groups aware of the program in the hope of encouraging stronger female participation in technology industries.

The scholarship theme "no limits" is trying to show women that technology can help them access any career they choose.

WIT Operations Manager Ms Kim Roy said scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students included cash, paid work experience, computers and most importantly coaching and support by other WIT members. These categories are just two of the 12 available to students, business and community groups. More details are available at www.wit.org.au .

Local sponsors attending Thursday's event included Optus, Ergon Energy, TAFE Queensland and the Department of State Development and Innovation. "All of these organisations are very supportive of the program and keen to work closely with local businesses and education providers to establish networks which increase opportunities for women in this arena," Ms Roy said.