YOUNG leaders with an interest in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics converged on Bendigo Tech School for a student ambassador bootcamp on Friday.
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About 50 students from Bendigo secondary schools joined in the ambassador program.
The program helps the students to influence others to engage with technology.
Bendigo Tech School director Graeme Wiggins said the ambassadors also informed the school’s learning programs.
"Ambassadors are leaders who understand the importance of technology to their future and want to help others to explore the possibilities of new and emerging technologies," he said.
Industry mentors Kaysee Gray, a La Trobe University education honours student, and Angus Bowles, an operations engineer for Coliban Water and GLLEN Young Industry Ambassador, worked with the students.
Ms Gray said she got involved in the program after attending professional development courses at the tech school. She said the combination of STEAM subjects and her education studies worked well together.
Ms Gray said the mentorship program was a great initiative for the students.
"It might take them to another pathway," she said. "I think it opens up a lot of doors for them."
Students not only worked with high-tech equipment during the workshops on Friday, but also developed soft skills. Ms Gray said the workshops allowed students to develop social relationships with people from other schools.
Mr Bowles said the mentoring program taught him about engaging with different personality types and age groups. "Working with students of various ages and having an impact on their leaning is really exciting," he said. He relished the enthusiasm different students shared as the workshops continued. "They're really empowered," he said.
Mr Wiggins said the bootcamp equipped ambassadors with skills in media management, communications, planning and design thinking.
The ambassadors will meet fortnightly, led by Ms Gray and Mr Bowles.
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