The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has opened applications for the third round of its Elevate: Boosting Women in STEM scholarship program.

The initiative, primarily funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, aims to award more than 500 undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships to women and non-binary individuals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) over six years.

The Elevate program supports diverse individuals with scholarships, skills, networks, and opportunities to flourish and lead in careers spanning Australia’s STEM-powered sectors.

ATSE CEO Kylie Walker encourages a diverse and broad range of people to apply and be supported to excel at the forefront of solving Australia’s urgent challenges. "Diversity is strength. It brings new perspectives, creativity and people power which are so critical for tackling our workforce shortages and advancing economic, social and environmental prosperity. With more than 2000 applications to date, the program is in high demand with diverse aspiring STEM professionals. Elevate is already helping scholars supercharge their careers and boosting their voices in decision-making in industry, academia and the public sector," said Walker.

Applications for Elevate scholarships starting in 2025 will be open until the 30th of August 2024. The program encourages applications from diverse women and non-binary people, with particular encouragement for applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; individuals from regional, rural or remote areas; people who identify as LGBTQIA+; individuals from culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds; those from low-socioeconomic backgrounds; or those living with a disability.

The Elevate program provides professional development, mentoring, and supportive networking in addition to scholarships. Yang-Ming Goh, an Elevate Scholar studying a Master of Business Administration at the University of New South Wales, said: "A sustainable future needs innovation and implementation best facilitated by a diverse workforce. I envision a future where people from diverse backgrounds can flourish, finding their fulfilment through meaningful contributions in the STEM industry, where their potential is supported through inclusive practices."

ATSE administers and delivers Elevate in collaboration with partners from industry and academia, including ATSE’s Industry Mentoring Network in STEM (IMNIS), the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, the Department of Defence, Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN), Cooperative Research Australia, Cicada Innovations, FB Rice, DMTC Limited, gemaker, Women in Leadership Development (WILD), Women in STEM Australia (WiSA), and Science & Technology Australia.