The partnership, which was signed by UQ Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Peter Høj and Aurecon CEO Bill Cox on 28 March, will challenge the status quo of how industry and education engage, and will support project-based collaboration.
Initially, UQ and Aurecon will focus on creating future ready graduates, and develop new models of entrepreneurship and innovation. There is also the potential to explore the exchange of talent and resources as both organisations.
Mr Cox said Aurecon is committed to working with UQ to develop the next generation of eminent designers, who are able to explore the digital frontier and champion excellence across diverse communities.
“When you create something, it is a catalyst for embracing new ways of thinking. A spark to explore different ideas, embrace innovation and a way to develop connections between people and places,” Mr Cox said.
“Collectively, we are uniquely placed to find and solve the big challenges facing the world. I believe we have the power to grow together and to make a real difference through the work we do.”
The partnership draws on strong existing links between UQ and Aurecon spanning research collaboration, consultancy and leadership, student recruitment and alumni engagement. Aurecon also sponsors UQ’s Geotechnical Engineering Centre with undergraduate programs, an active research program, and specialised consulting activities.
Professor Høj said workplace integrated learning is not only an important part of the student experience, but also supports diverse thinking and creative thought leadership.
“As a highly ranked global institution for engineering, UQ’s continuing ambition is to create meaningful opportunities for industry partners to connect with us, to create change and, together, to shape our global future,” Professor Høj said.
“We are excited by the possibilities of partnering with such a globally connected company as Aurecon, which, like UQ, recognises the importance of preparing agile and future-ready students with skills in critical and creative thinking, problem solving and teamwork.”
For more information, please contact Dr Jessica Gallagher, Director, UQ Global Engagement and Entrepreneurship. +61 7 3346 7869, j.gallagher@uq.edu.au.
