Queensland University of Technology (QUT) student Vanessa Li has been awarded the ABC Women in Broadcast Technology (WiBT) Scholarship for the 2017 program.

ABC’s Acting Technology Client Support Manager Queensland Steve Roberts awarded the scholarship on 2 February, in a ceremony held at ABC Brisbane at the end of Vanessa’s four weeks of work experience. Mr Roberts congratulated Vanessa and reinforced the ABC’s commitment to reducing the gender imbalance in technology roles at the ABC.

“These scholarships aim to introduce women to the possibilities of careers in broadcast and media technology and give talented women an opportunity to develop their technical and professional skills,” Mr Roberts said.

Program sponsor Deputy General Manager of Technology, Margaret Cassidy acknowledged that the scholarships also bring many benefits to the ABC, “creating a more diverse and balanced workplace where women and men are both treated equally, as well as providing a broader recruitment reservoir of talented, budding technologists.

“In turn, recipients of this scholarship gain a unique insight into the broadcasting sector which will serve to increase their future career opportunities and develop their skills, as a result of practical on-the-job experience with expert mentoring and financial assistance.”

Currently completing a double degree in Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Information, Vanessa’s interest in science and technology grew out of her love for problem solving and math.

A skilled musician and keen consumer of ABC programs, Vanessa enjoyed finding out what goes on behind the scenes of putting radio and television programs to air.

“I am very interested in how things work and how to apply this knowledge to real life. IT is a growing industry and this experience will help to broaden my experience,” she said.

Each year the ABC provides up to eight scholarships, awarded to women undertaking a technology related discipline at a TAFE, university or recognised tertiary institution.

The scholarship includes four weeks paid on-the-job training in technology areas of the ABC and a $1000 study allowance.

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