The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has partnered with the Australian Submarine Agency to deliver its newest initiative to build Australia’s skilled workforce, the Propel: Australian Submarine Scholarship.
“Through developing educational, skills and career pathways in applied science, technology and engineering, ATSE is putting Australia on the path to innovate, diversify and build our future security, capability, economy and strength,” ATSE CEO Dr Kylie Walker, said. “We’re pleased to extend our commitment to building a diverse and capable STEM workforce.
With support through to 2029, Propel will provide $5,000 scholarships to 3,000 university students, supporting studies in priority disciplines for Australia’s security and resilience, including engineering, physics, and mathematics.
“Growing the number of STEM-skilled graduates is vital to providing the critical workforce that Australia needs to grow our productivity and increase our security," Walker stated. “Graduates from ATSE’s programs are more likely to complete their studies and go on to meaningful work across a range of sectors. They consistently highlight the importance of ATSE’s programs when it comes to readiness for these STEM careers.”
The scholarships will contribute to a growing cohort of highly-skilled graduates who, it is hoped, will play a critical role in delivering innovation for the nation.
As well as supporting students to develop critical skills, the scholarship program will connect scholars with career opportunities in defence science, technology and engineering, through the AUKUS Nuclear-Powered Submarine Pathway.
It is the newest program in ATSE’s highly regarded suite of skills- and career-building initiatives, which include school education program STELR, the Elevate: Boosting diversity in STEM scholarships program, and the national Industry Mentoring Network in STEM.
Applications for the Propel scholarships will open in the coming months, with the initial scholarships to be awarded to students studying in 2026.