Curtin University has celebrated a new partnership with Kalyx Australia, with the successful establishment of a work placement program for agriculture students.
Georgia Oliver, a third year agriculture student at Curtin, is the first to benefit from the program, carrying out seed processing and analysis work with the independent research provider since November last year, while continuing full-time study at the University into 2014.
“When the opportunity came up to work at Kalyx Australia as a casual, I grabbed it – it’s fantastic to be able to work casually while gaining valuable work experience in an industry I’m passionate about,” Ms Oliver said.
“It has really opened my eyes as to what it will be like in the real world after I graduate and is helping me decide where to head after getting a degree, whether it be research or in the industry. I’ve had a taste of both now.
“Whichever direction I head for, it will definitely involve agriculture, as there is always something grabbing your attention and driving your passion.
“Whether that is the debate around genetic modification, the banning of livestock exports or the amazing potential of new varieties, there is always something to rally you up.”
The work placements are the first step towards further collaboration on applied research activities that will see profitable outcomes for the Australian Grains Industry.
Peter Burgess, Kalyx Australia Director, said the work placement program worked perfectly for his company, especially as it helped fill needs for casual technical officer positions.
“Students who do our program get a taste of what it’s like really working in the industry while continuing to study at Curtin,” Mr Burgess said
“It also provides the students with the option to continue working for us after university in our graduate program, which has now been rolled out across the country.
“It is important we have the programs and structures in place to keep agricultural graduates engaged and excited about the industry.”
