Babcock and Auckland University of Technology (AUT) today signed an agreement to collaborate on scholarships, internships and joint research projects to advance knowledge, research and collaboration to grow New Zealand’s maritime engineering sector.
As a part of the new arrangement, Babcock and AUT will develop a range of initiatives aimed at increasing the participation of under-represented groups in technology and engineering studies and research, including women, and Māori and Pasifika students.
The new partnership will also enable more students to enter the maritime engineering sector by ensuring they have the knowledge and skills required to meet New Zealand and global engineering trends and requirements
The agreement was signed by Babcock’s Program Director, Mark Worsfold, and AUT’s Associate Dean & Director External Engagement, Dr Yvonne Chan Cashmore and Acting Head of School – Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Professor Tek Lie, at the Devonport Naval Base.
“Our Principles include kotahitanga (collaborate), kia pākiki (be curious), and whakaaro tukunga iho (think:outcomes),” said Mark Worsfold. “At Babcock we believe that we are greater than the sum of our parts and through curiosity, collaboration and a focus on achievement we can connect with our customers, our stakeholders, and partners to create a safe and secure world together.
“AUT shares many of our principles so we are thrilled to partner with them to jointly develop research, expertise, and training to build a stronger maritime sector in New Zealand.
“We know that maritime engineering industry thrives when we have diversity of people, cultures, and ideas in our teams. We are proud to continue our work with AUT to support equity in engineering through our sponsorship of the Excellence in Māori and Pasifika Advancement Awards and Women in Technology Awards. We will also look for opportunity for new scholarships and placements to support students to explore their passion for careers in engineering,” Mr Worsfold said.
AUT Pro Vice-Chancellor and Faculty of Design and Creative Technologies Dean, Professor Guy Littlefair said that the partnership with Babcock will provide students with a range of important hands-on experiences.
“We are excited about the opportunities this new partnership provides for our students to enter the maritime engineering industry.
“Students will participate in Babcock hosted industry awareness sessions, internships and projects, which will prepare them well for their future careers in the maritime industry,” Professor Littlefair said.
Professor Littlefair said that the together AUT and Babcock will also focus on the acceleration of technology and knowledge development to find solutions to global problems using local New Zealand capabilities and expertise.
