The i3net Illawarra’s Innovative Industry Network in conjunction with Illawarra Sports High School are very excited to announce that the Industry Mentoring Program will be continuing.

This program introduces Year 11 and 12 students to the various facets of industry.  Through the commitment of several i3net companies this program provides students with the opportunity to draft design and create a product.  Students gain unparallel access to state of the art equipment, hands on experience and training by some of the Illawarra’s most innovative and cutting edge companies.

Allan Wickett of Intercad kindly donated Illawarra Sports High School with 11 licences to the highly regarded intercad solidworks 3d software program. 

David Herron, Manager NAB Wollongong expressed his enthusiasm for the project and enjoyed meeting this years students.  The (NAB) National Australia Bank wished the i3net and Illawarra Sports High School every success with next years project and looked forward to being part of such a wonderful opportunity.  David handed a cheque for $50000 through their schools first impact program to Dr Peter Bailey, Principal of Illawarra Sports High School and Rod Brown, i3net Chairman.

Noreen Hay, MP attended the launch of the program and congratulated this years students on the successful completion of the program and the importance community based initiatives had to play.

Mitchell Bresser, Engineering Student University of Wollongong (former Illawarra Sports High School student) completed the i3net’s engineering program in 2008 and kindly mentored this years students. 

Rod Brown, i3net Chairman “Thanked David and Ellie from the NAB for their support with the program and the assistance these funds will provide with the continuance and facilitation of the program.  It’s hoped that programs such as these will provide students with a good understanding of the various manufacturing and engineering opportunities available in the Illawarra and may contribute a small way to the skills shortage.  Careers available in the industry sector have changed quite considerably over the years and it is hoped that providing students with a positive and creative experience they may consider continuing their education in engineering and employment.” 

Rod also mentioned that the companies involved committed a great deal of their time and expertise to the project and thanked them sincerely for the efforts. Kunal Jariwala University of Wollongong, Accounting Student, also mentored the students and contributed much of his personal time to the success of this year’s project.

The i3net was formed several years ago in response to a need to promote awareness of the high-technology innovation base within the Illawarra. The Network is focused on increasing business opportunity for Illawarra industry.  New members are always welcome.