Astron Senior Scientist, Sam Mueller took part in Central Tafe’s Biology, Earth and Environmental Science (BEES) Day.
BEES Day is an annual event that showcases some of the exciting careers that are related to biology, earth and environmental sciences to high school students in years 9, 10 and 11. It’s designed to increase student awareness relating to the varied opportunities available by studying these sciences whilst also motivating students to consider the industry as a career prospect when making subject selections.
Presenters from a wide range of industries shared experiences from their work and engaged students with hands-on activities. Some of the presenters included; Department of Mines and Petroleum, Whiteman Park, Department of Environmental Regulation, University of Western Australia - Zoology, Edith Cowan University, Western Australian Museum – Material conservation branch, Volunteering Overseas, Department of Fisheries, Central Institute of Technology, and Astron.
Central Tafe’s Certificate IV / Diploma in Environmental Monitoring and Technology focuses heavily on the collection and interpretation of surface water, groundwater and soil, with units in basic field analytical tests, presenting environmental data, collecting routine site samples and recognition of common geological landforms.
The course structure relates directly to a number of Astron’s core services including Air and Water Quality, and Contaminated Sites Investigation.
Sam’s presentation focused on using a basic decision making model to determine the investigation of potential contamination, and subsequently the management of an actual contaminated site. Using a simple and locally based example, the students were given a broad understanding of a contaminated sites investigation, from the planning of a scope of work, the implementation of a sampling program (including the installation of groundwater bores) to the creation of a conceptual site model and identifying human and ecological health risks.
Sam facilitated four 45 minute sessions throughout the day to Lakelands and Willetton Senior High School students, including various activities between sessions where the students had an opportunity to ask questions. Central Tafe expressed their gratitude to all those involved in making the day a big success. We hope we can participate in BEES Day again next year and share knowledge with the next generation of environmental scientists.