Helping Australia's brightest young innovators shine on the world stage

15 Jun 2026
Julia Bell image Julia Bell
News

Our Head of Future Workforce and Talent, Julia Bell, shares her reflections on Alinta Energy's recent sponsorship of the Australian Science and Engineering Fair and why supporting the next generation of innovators matters.

Two smiling girls standing in front of a information stand
AUSSEF Sponsorship Students

Seeing what young people are capable of when they're given the opportunity to explore their curiosity and turn big ideas into reality is a really rewarding part of my job at Alinta.

In May, some of Australia's brightest young innovators travelled to Phoenix, Arizona to compete at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) — often described as the Olympics of science fairs. They joined students from more than 70 countries to showcase projects that tackled real-world challenges in creative and inspiring way.

Among the Australian projects were an AI-powered sign language glove, a solar-powered weed control system and even surfboards made from fungi. The ingenuity, passion and problem-solving on display was incredible.

I'm proud that Alinta Energy played a small part in helping make that possible.

Through our sponsorship of the Australian Science and Engineering Fair (AUSSEF), we helped support the Australian delegation's journey to ISEF. AUSSEF is a national program that celebrates and nurtures some of Australia's most talented Year 9-12 students with a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Group of Australian students at the ISEF event
AUSSEF sponsored team

For me, it's about much more than sponsorship.

As our energy system continues to evolve, we'll need the next generation of engineers, data specialists, digital experts, scientists, tradespeople and other technical professionals to help power what's next. That's why it's important for students to see a future for themselves in STEM and helping them understand where that future could take them.

This sponsorship is one part of Alinta Energy's broader commitment to building a strong future workforce. Whether it's through graduate and apprenticeship programs, school engagement initiatives or partnerships like AUSSEF, we're passionate about helping young people discover meaningful careers and opportunities in the energy sector.

World class results for Australia

The Australian team delivered outstanding results at ISEF 2026, with three students receiving Grand Awards totalling USD $3,600. Check out all the winners and finalists here.

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Acknowledgement of Country
Alinta Energy acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and conduct our business operations.  We acknowledge the continuing connections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to Country and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

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