Alcoa Foundation grant to help address female engineers shortage: Deakin

Five final year female engineering students will receive a boost to their studies thanks to a special grant project between Alcoa Foundation and Deakin University.

Deakin University Faculty of Science Engineering and Built Environment Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Trevor Day said the Alcoa Foundation Engineering Graduation Program announced last night was an illustration of the company's legacy within the Geelong region.

"This grant of $10,000 each for five final year female engineering students will give these future engineers much-needed support as they complete their degree at Deakin," Professor Day said.

"At Deakin we are committed to addressing not only the skill shortage facing the nation but the ongoing gender imbalance within the field of engineering and this Alcoa Foundation program is a key part of that.

"We know that the cost of education is a major factor for some students and can be the difference between completing studies or not, so this program will help ensure more students can go on and complete their degree much more comfortably than may otherwise have been the case."

Professor Day said Deakin applauded the Alcoa Foundation for its investment in education through this new grants program.

"Deakin University is committed to the communities we serve, which is why we aspire to not only provide a first-class learning environment, but to give our students the necessary support for their success," he said.

"We are also excited about what the future holds for our students and the wider community through the continued expansion of our cutting-edge technology precinct, which already boasts some of the world's most innovative research, programs and facilities."