Bridging Gaps in STEM and Rural Communities with Tech Innovation

Westpac Scholars Young Technologist Elisha Cordero’s passion for technology and fixing the gender gap in STEM led her onto an IT + business study path. Here she’s gathering the skills and knowledge to make a difference for women, as well as rural communities facing geographical barriers

Elisha Cordero is currently a full-time first year student, studying a Bachelor of Business/IT at QUT and working as an analyst at accounting firm BDO. At uni she’s exploring programming, databases, systems analysis, and getting to know innovative technologies like Raspberry Pi. The business side of her degree delves into things like economics, strategic planning and assessing the viability of various business ventures.

 

And at work? She dives into database management. “Here I maintain accuracy and integrity of client information,” Elisha explains. “I log details of group member interactions within our system and communicate with third parties to ensure that all information is correct.”

 

The combo of academic learning and practical experience is a winner, according to Elisha, who believes it gives her a well-rounded understanding of both fields.

 

Applying for the Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship

 

Elisha decided to apply for the Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship because it not only spoke to her interest in tech and her commitment to making STEM a more inclusive environment for women, it also gave her access to mentoring and networking opportunities through the Westpac Scholar W100 network, an alumni program to which all Westpac Scholars become lifelong members.

 

“Being part of Westpac Scholar’s W100 network is also incredibly appealing,” she adds. “The W100 community represents a large, influential network of forward-thinking professionals and experts in technology. This network offers invaluable opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and growth.”

 

The Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship has also opened up a range of exciting opportunities for Elisha. One of the highlights so far has been attending the annual Westpac Scholars Summit in Sydney.

 

“This provided invaluable insights into industry trends and allowed me to engage with leading experts and innovators,” she says.

 

Through the scholarship, Elisha will be able to attend the Westpac Scholars Disruptive Leaders Program in Singapore in 2025.

 

“This opportunity to travel internationally really opens up doors to get to connect with people from different countries while forming life-long connections with influential leaders in the field,” Elisha explains. “These connections are instrumental in expanding my horizons, exchanging ideas, and collaborating on initiatives that drive meaningful change in the industry.”

 

The future’s bright

 

Elisha’s goal is to one day work for a company or start her own business that develops digital solutions for geographical barriers faced by rural communities. She’s keen on telemedicine platforms and the use of AI to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare.

 

Her advice for high school students wanting to study and work in technology? “Cultivate a mindset of curiosity and continuous learning! The tech field is always evolving, so being open to learning new skills and exploring emerging technologies will help you stay ahead.”

 

Published 2 December 2024. Story credit: Louise Meers, author. This story was first published on CareerswithSTEM.com