Undergraduate students at Western Sydney University are being provided with opportunities to work directly with lead designers, technologists, and business stakeholders at Western Sydney International Airport and technology services company DXC Technology on real world research and design projects.
Students will gain industry experience while they complete their final year capstone project and earn credits towards completing their studies.
Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) chief technology officer Tom McCormack said that WSI has a commitment to promoting career pathways for students in Western Sydney.
“Working with Western Sydney University (WSU) is a natural fit for WSI,’’ he said.
“In our second round of engagement we’ve provided problems to solve for a great airport experience and the university has provided the intellectual capability of their brilliant final year students.
“Together, with great support from our partner, DXC Technology, we will create a technology hub of expertise, capability and economic activity for both the airport and the west,’’ Mr McCormack said.
Associate professor Anupama Ginige, associate dean, engagement at the school of computer, data and mathematical sciences at WSU, said that the partnership between the university and WSI represents an exemplary work-integrated learning model, providing students with exposure to real world experiences.
“Students transition from theoretical knowledge to practical application by participating in tangible projects at WSI, tackling authentic technical challenges,’’ she said.
“The industry based projects at WSI serve as a critical stepping stone, enabling students to cultivate their professional relationships and networks even before they graduate.
“Perhaps the most substantial gain for students lies in enhancing soft skills through their collaborative projects; students sharpen vital skills in communication, teamwork, and problem solving – attributes that are highly sought after in the global job market.
“The WSU-WSI partnership doesn’t just prepare students for a job; it prepares them for a career, fostering an ecosystem of learning that blends academic rigour with real world relevance.’’
DXC Technology’s industry general manager Allan Hill said the company was delighted to be partnering with WSU on a range of projects that will help students solve real world challenges and develop work ready skills which are critical to supporting the new Western Sydney International Airport and the growing Western Sydney region.
