“My high school physics teacher inspired my interest in the electrical side of physics and, being from Muswellbrook, I knew the mining industry offered job opportunities where I could apply what I enjoyed at school,” says Talesin Court-Kriesch.
“Our high school careers advisor was always looking out for us and encouraged me to apply for the Bengalla Engineering Scholarship.”
Talesin went on to study Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Newcastle University from 2018, and, through the scholarship, not only did he get practical work experience but also financial support.
“Engineering is a notoriously challenging field and trying to learn during COVID, without face-to-face teaching, made it all the more difficult,” he added. “The scholarship had a huge impact. It was my first time living out of home, completing a challenging degree, but thanks to the work placement and support, I didn’t have the added stress of taking on a second job to be able to live in Newcastle.”
“I honestly think without the scholarship, it would have taken me even longer to complete the degree.”
After graduating in 2023, Talesin now works as a full-time Electrical Engineering Graduate at Bengalla, where he focuses on developing systems to make the mining environment safer for his teammates.
“It was a no-brainer to come back – my friends and family live here and the team at Bengalla is very supportive and community-minded. Working at a mine site every day has definitely been an adjustment but I’m glad to be out of the classroom and doing practical work every day.”