CareerTrackers and QUT Extend Partnership

CareerTrackers and QUT extend partnership through a renewed agreement between Queensland University of Technology and CareerTrackers. Continuing a decade-long collaboration focused on creating real-world learning opportunities and paid internships for Indigenous students.

The extended three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will further strengthen pathways into industry through structured work-integrated learning, mentoring and culturally grounded support.

The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship that first began when QUT became the first Australian university to sign a 10-year agreement with CareerTrackers.

Since then, the partnership has supported hundreds of Indigenous students in gaining meaningful industry experience across a wide range of sectors, helping to bridge the gap between study and employment outcomes.

Wesley Enoch, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Australians at QUT, said the renewed agreement reinforces the university's commitment to real-world learning and Indigenous student success.

"This reinforces our long history in providing transformative, real-world experiences for our students," Professor Enoch said.

We like to see people succeed in the real world. QUT is committed to working with CareerTrackers to provide culturally relevant programs grounded in Indigenous knowledge, identity and lived experience.

QUT helps build confidence, strengthen identity and ensures students can see themselves succeeding in every space they enter. The signing of our MOU reinforces something QUT stands firmly behind that Indigenous success and excellence are not aspirations, but priorities."

Established in 2009, CareerTrackers has supported more than 9,000 internships nationwide. Through a model that combines work-integrated learning, mentoring and employer partnerships with universities and industry.

CareerTrackers CEO Adam Davids said the renewed partnership reflects a shared vision for student success and long-term impact.

"By renewing our partnership with QUT, we are deepening our commitment to enriching the student experience. Driving academic success and investing in the immense potential of these future leaders," Mr Davids said.

"Together, we are ensuring students are fully supported as they transition from the lecture theatre into meaningful careers. Where they can thrive as industry role models."

QUT graduate Robert Wolski said his experience with CareerTrackers was pivotal in shaping his career direction and confidence.

"The CareerTrackers program was pivotal in my career. Because it showed me that working in higher-paid corporate environments was actually possible," Robert said.

"My first internship was in 2017 and my last in 2021. Another intern, Kayla and I were the first interns placed at Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. I worked in the strategic content team, which served QFES, the Queensland Police Service and the Public Safety Business Agency equally. So I got to see and work on a huge range of projects."

In 2019, Robert received a CareerTrackers Project Excellence Award. For his contribution to media coordination during the 2018–2019 bushfires across Queensland and New South Wales.

"CareerTrackers students are far more likely to finish their degree and find paid work than university students who are not in the program. It also gives you a community of people who can help connect you to culture. Which I think matters more than ever in the current political climate," he said.

"Now, as an alumnus, CareerTrackers offers something just as valuable. A sense of community and a connection to culture that can be hard to find in south-east Queensland."

QUT student Paige Thomas, who is studying a Bachelor of Architectural Design. Has completed two paid internships through CareerTrackers in the construction industry.

"My CareerTrackers advisor offers support throughout the semester with monthly check-ins. Notifies me with opportunities and helps me to make informed decisions about what company I would like to work for," Paige said.

"After my second year at QUT. I was placed with Stockland as a civil and infrastructure construction consultant. Then, after my third year of university. I was placed with Cox Architecture as a student designer."

Once she completes her degree, Paige hopes to work in an architectural firm before pursuing postgraduate study.

"CareerTrackers aims to give First Nations real-world experience within their field study. This experience can help to inform students of their chosen career, what pathway they want to take and for them to have experience to put on their resume before they graduate," she said.

Career Trackers also host workshops throughout the year on areas including culture, how to be interview-ready, preparing your resume and networking. Having this knowledge refreshed every year helps students to be prepared. Not only for interviews, but for once they are in the office."

Brigette Sancho, Executive Director of University Engagement at CareerTrackers, said the collaboration continues to deliver strong outcomes for students.

"With 1190 internships completed by QUT students to date. Including 340 students supported just over the last summer and winter periods. The impact of this relationship is undeniable," Sancho said.

"This MoU allows us to scale that success. Opening even more doors for students to gain vital industry experience, professional development and build strong foundations for their future careers."

Images supplied by QUT's photographer, Anthony Weate

Last photo:

Briette Sancho, Executive Director, University Engagement CareerTrackers.

CareerTrackers CEO Adam Davids.

Robert Wolski, Paige Thomas and Professor Wesley Enoch, QUT Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Australians.

Megan Harrison, Indigenous Australian Senior Student Success Educator.

With a painting by Blak Douglas presented to Wesley.