Girl Power in Engineering and IT

About the program

Stage 1: Year 9 students

Commencing in Year 9, approximately 40 students are selected to participate in the camp during the July term holidays, where they will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about careers in engineering and IT
• Participate in hands-on interactive workshops
• Interact with University of Melbourne engineering and IT students
• Hear from industry and our academic staff about engineering and IT issues
• Form a network of like-minded individuals

Stage 2: Year 10 students

In the second stage of the program, Year 10 students will have the opportunity to complete the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology work experience program and will choose either engineering and IT. This week is the final week of Term 2. Students applying for Girl Power should check with their schools to see if this date is suitable for their work experience program.

Stage 3: Year 11 & 12 students

The final stage of the program facilitates mentoring opportunities between Year 11 and 12 students, and University of Melbourne engineering and IT students.

Camp details

The camp will run for Year 9: Sunday 5 July to Wednesday 8 July 2026.

• The program is free of charge and will include accommodation, all meals and workshops during the camp.
• Accommodation will be at a residential college at the University of Melbourne.
• Dietary requirements will be catered for and students will need to provide this information as part of the application process.

Application process

Approximately 40 female students will be selected to participate in the program in 2026. To participate in the subsequent stages of the program, students must have participated in the Girl Power in Engineering and IT camp whilst in Year 9. Please note that the program is open only to students in Year 9 in 2026.

• Applications will be reviewed, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview/assessment center.
• Applicants must upload a letter of support from their School Principal or teacher as part of their application. Ideas of things to include in the letter from the Principal are below:
  • Why are you recommending this student?
  • What is your relationship with this student?
  • How long have you known this student?
  • How do you think this student will benefit from the program over other students?
  • Can you give an example of when this student has demonstrated an interest in STEM?
• If you are selected to participate in the Girl Power in Engineering & IT camp, we will also require your school's consent for you to take part in the Year 10 Work Experience component of the program in 2027

Timeline*

• Applications open 1 Feb 
• Application close 12 April 
• Short listed applicants will be notified by end of April 
• Assessment center and interviews held (online): 5-7 May
• Successful applicants will be notified in late May
• Year 9 Camp: 5-8 July

*Please be advised that the application deadline for  has been extended to 12 April, instead of 5 April as previously communicated. The submission deadline has been extended due to a delay in the application opening date.

Selection criteria

Essential

1. A keen interest in maths and science with a desire to explore engineering or IT as a career
2. Good Communication and relationship building skills which will enable you to act as an ambassador for Engineering and IT and for the Girl Power program at your School (if selected, the student will be asked to demonstrate evidence of their initiative to the University)
3. Be able to describe the importance of engineering and information technology
4. Good at team work
5. Ability to work off your own initiative and be self-motivated and driven

Desired

1. Ability to demonstrate a broad range of interests and involvement in extracurricular activities Leadership skills. Being part of an established network (e.g. school clubs, teams) that you are willing to share ideas with.

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