In Episode 81 of the Bridge Building Podcast, host Stephen Anderson previews two inspiring sessions from the 2025 DATTA QLD Conference.

Margaret O’Brien, CEO and co-founder of Young Change Agents, is our Friday morning keynote. She shares how design and technologies education can be a springboard for young people to solve real-world problems and create social impact. Margaret offers a powerful call to action for teachers as mentors, changemakers, and facilitators of “FLARN”—failing and learning.

Natasha Ratajczek from the Queensland State Library joins us to discuss their free, state-wide programs that bring research skills, cultural artefacts, and design thinking into the classroom—no matter your school’s location. She previews her Live at the Library demo and Friday tours, connecting educators with resources designed for creative problem solving and empathetic learning.

This episode will spark ideas, elevate your teaching, and get you excited for the upcoming conference.

Margaret O’Brien (Young Change Agents)

• Design thinking for social innovation

• Empowering students with agency and confidence

• Real school case studies & free classroom resources

• Bridging schools with industry and social enterprise

• The mentor role of design and tech educators

Natasha Ratajczek (Queensland State Library)

• Live at the Library: free online workshops for QLD schools

• Promoting information literacy, research skills & empathy

• Connecting students with real design stories and artefacts (e.g., the Queen’s Baton)

• State-wide outreach to regional and rural classrooms

• Guided tours & professional learning at the Library

Date: June 19–20, 2025 Location: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre 🔗 Register Here

Deadline: May 31, 2025 🔗 Submit Nominations

• Apple Podcasts

• DATTA QLD Podcast Hub

• Stitcher

• MyPodcast

In Episode 80 of the Bridge Building Podcast, host Stephen Anderson previews two powerhouse sessions from the upcoming 2025 DATTA QLD Conference (June 19–20, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre).

He’s joined by Michael Mikhail, a Melbourne-based engineer and fibre laser innovator, and Jacqueline Niblett, a University of Queensland educator who’s bringing creative firepower to the classroom. Together, they represent the exciting blend of industry, innovation, and education shaping this year’s conference.

This episode is packed with practical insight for educators in design, technologies, engineering, and business. Tune in to hear what’s in store—and why you don’t want to miss these sessions live!

Michael Mikhail’s Session – Friday, June 20, 2:00–3:00 PM, Room A2

• Introducing the “MiniMe” industrial-grade fibre laser for schools
• Closing the education-industry gap in manufacturing workflows
• Using SolidWorks and nesting software for lean, cost-effective cutting
• Teaching students about waste minimisation and process efficiency
• Reflections from Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW)

   

Jacqueline Niblett’s Workshops – Thursday, June 19, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM & 2:00–4:00 PM, Room B3

• Mapping the customer journey for real-world empathy and insight
• “Good Idea vs. Bad Idea”: a team-based creativity challenge
• Linking user needs to innovation in student and teacher mindsets
• Transforming outlandish ideas into market-ready concepts

🗓 Date: June 19–20, 2025 📍 Location: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre 🔗 Register Now

Recognise excellence in design and technologies education! 🕒 Deadline: May 31, 2025 🔗 Nominate Here

• Apple Podcasts
• DATTA QLD Podcast Hub
• Stitcher
• MyPodcast

🎙 Host: Stephen Anderson📧 Email: [email protected] 🏫 Cleveland State High School

Episode Overview Stephen Anderson fuels excitement for the 2025 DATTA QLD Conference in Episode 79, recorded on May 5 and 7, 2025, with Kabi Kabi/Gubbi Gubbi educator Sally Lawrence and QUT PhD researcher Leighann Ness-Wilson. This episode previews their June 19 sessions at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, offering insights for design and technology educators. Sally and artist Lesley Gordon Morabalista Warraba dive into Aboriginal tools, fibres, and plant uses, linking cultural knowledge to design. Leighann shares her work on the engineering syllabus and PhD insights on teacher confidence at the conference dinner. Stephen ties it together with reflections on teaching, making this a must-listen for educators prepping for June 19–20. Plus, get details on conference registration and the 2025 Teacher Excellence and Service Awards! 

Key Topics Discussed 

• Sally Lawrence’s Workshop: Exploring Aboriginal tools, fibres, and medicines (e.g., kurrajong for cordage, cinnamon myrtle for axe handles) with Lesley Gordon Morabalista Warraba; ties to 8 Ways of Aboriginal Learning; webinar for ongoing access. 

• Leighann Ness-Wilson’s Contributions: Morning workshop on senior engineering syllabus with MSQ/QUT; dinner speech on PhD findings about pre-service teachers’ confidence and misconceptions in design and technologies. 

• Cultural and Educational Connections: Sally’s past DATTA contributions (e.g., Cherbourg prefabrication, banya); Leighann’s research on teacher optimism and curriculum alignment. 

• Conference Details: June 19–20, 2025, at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre; register via DATTA QLD. 

• Awards Nominations: Teacher Excellence and Service to Design & Technology Education Awards, due May 31, 2025.

Links and Resources 

• Cleveland State High School: www.clevelandshs.eq.edu.au 

• DATTA Queensland: www.dattaqld.org.au 

• Conference Registration: www.dattaqld.org.au/conference (Check for updates) 

• Awards Nomination Form: www.dattaqld.org.au/awards 

• Connect With Us: Host: Stephen Anderson – [email protected]

Episode Overview

Stephen Anderson launches the 2025 DATTA QLD Conference Series in Episode 78, recorded on April 28 and 30, 2025, with design educators Justine Hawkins and Wayne van den Bos. This episode previews their June 20 sessions at the DATTA QLD Conference, offering a sneak peek into practical tools and syllabus updates for design and technology teachers. Justine shares her passion for fashion and textiles, detailing workshops on drawing soft furnishings and a discussion on Year 10 design courses. Wayne, a syllabus co-writer, unpacks assessment changes, a new IA1 template, and innovative unit sequencing. Stephen ties it all together with his own teaching experiences, making this a must-listen for educators gearing up for the June 19–20 conference at Villanova College. Plus, get details on registering and nominating for the 2025 Teacher Excellence and Service Awards!

Key Topics Discussed

• Justine Hawkins’ Workshops: Techniques for drawing soft interiors and fashion garments with the “Illustrate” tool; strategies for building Year 10 design courses.

• Wayne van den Bos’ Session: Updates to IA1, IA2, and IA3 in the senior syllabus, a new IA1 template, and tips for tight word limits and unit sequencing.

• Year 10 Design Importance: Strengthening junior programs to boost senior enrollment, inspired by Stephen’s school experiences.

• Conference Details: June 19–20, 2025, at Villanova College; register via DATTA QLD.

• Awards Nominations: Teacher Excellence and Service to Design & Technology Education Awards, due May 31, 2025. Links and Resources

• Cleveland State High School: www.clevelandshs.eq.edu.au

• DATTA Queensland: www.dattaqld.org.au

• Conference Registration: www.dattaqld.org.au/conference (Check for updates)

• Awards Nomination Form: www.dattaqld.org.au/awards

• Connect With Us: Host: Stephen Anderson – [email protected]

Episode Overview

Stephen Anderson sits down with five Year 11 and 12 students from Cleveland State High School to launch the 2025 Teacher Excellence Awards and Service to Design and Technology Education Award. Recorded on March 26, 2025, this episode celebrates the educators and supporters shaping design and technology education in Queensland. The students share heartfelt stories about teachers who go above and beyond—think quirky sayings, passionate literature lessons, and collaborative classrooms. Stephen also shares a gem from his own past: an English teacher who wove Jake and The Fatman into Macbeth. Plus, get the full scoop on how to nominate a deserving teacher or community member for these prestigious awards.  

Key Topics Discussed  

What Makes a Great Teacher: Students share stories of teachers who make learning fun, foster collaboration, and show genuine care.  

Teacher Excellence Awards: Recognizing educators who shine in design and technology classroom teaching.  

Service to Design and Technology Education Award: Honoring community members, teacher aides, retirees, or businesses supporting the field.  

Nomination Details: Learn how to nominate, including deadlines and criteria for both awards.  

DATTA QLD Conference Dinner: Mark your calendars for June 19, 2025, when winners will be celebrated.

Links and Resources:  

Cleveland State High School: www.clevelandshs.eq.edu.au  

DATTA Queensland: www.dattaqld.org.au  

Awards Nomination Form: www.dattaqld.org.au/awards (Check for updates)  

Connect With Us:  

Host: Stephen Anderson – [email protected]

Episode Overview

Stephen Anderson sits down with Tim Bateup, a STEM teacher from Roma State High School, who’s kicking goals in rural education. Recently awarded a $10,000 Toyota STEM scholarship, Tim’s headed to London to bring back fresh ideas for his Southwest Queensland students. From his roots in digital technologies to pioneering virtual lessons in the Queensland Virtual STEM Academy, Tim shares how he’s bridging the gap for kids in the bush. We explore his gypsy-like teaching journey, the power of virtual learning, and why country life beats the city chaos any day.  

Key Topics Discussed  

From Digital Tech to STEM All-Rounder

Tim traces his path from teaching digital technologies to blending woodwork, science, and maths in the STEM space.  

Toyota Scholarship: London Calling

Hear how Tim plans to use his $10,000 award to attend the New Scientist conference and visit UK schools.  

Queensland Virtual STEM Academy

Discover this futuristic program—think avatars, live lessons, and on-demand videos—bringing expert teaching to rural kids.  

Rural Teaching: Challenges and Rewards

Tim reflects on life in Emerald, Goondiwindi, and Roma, and why the bush is the best place to teach and live.  

What’s Next: A Virtual Future

Tim’s eyeing a permanent gig in virtual education—find out how you can get in on this growing field.

Links and Resources:  

Roma State High School: www.romashs.eq.edu.au (Check for school updates)  

Queensland Virtual Academy: www.education.qld.gov.au (Search for virtual programs)  

Toyota STEM Scholarship: www.toyota.com.au/community/scholarships  

Smart Jobs (Teaching Opportunities): www.smartjobs.qld.gov.au  

DATTA Queensland: www.dattaqld.org.au

Connect With Us:  

Host: Stephen Anderson – [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

In this episode, Stephen Anderson sits down with Emmanuelle Buecher Hall, a science teacher at Mansfield State High School in Brisbane. A former marine biologist who’s researched jellyfish in South Africa and sailed the world with her family, Emmanuelle now brings real scientists into her school to spark curiosity in students. Stephen first heard her speak at the Future of Education Conference, then organized a trip for his Nanango students to attend one of her after-school science talks—a trip that left a lasting impression. We dive into her journey, her innovative incursions program, and how she’s inspiring the next generation of scientists, one curious mind at a time.

Key Topics Discussed From Marine Biology to the Classroom Emmanuelle shares her winding path—from studying jellyfish in Cape Town to teaching science in Brisbane—proving it’s never a straight line to inspiring students. Scientists in School: The Incursions Program Learn how Emmanuelle invites scientists—over 50 in five years!—to Mansfield for informal talks on topics from volcanoes to quantum physics, open to all curious students. Beyond the Curriculum: Fostering Curiosity Forget marks—this is about passion. Emmanuelle explains how real-world science exposure helps students discover what they love, no textbook required.

Tips for Teachers: Starting Your Own Program Emmanuelle offers practical advice on reaching out to scientists and adapting her model for other schools or subjects—like tech or engineering.

A Regional Road Trip to Brisbane Stephen reflects on bringing Nanango students to Mansfield and how regional schools can tap into this big-city science buzz. 

Links and Resources: • Mansfield State High School: www.mansfieldshs.eq.edu.au (Check for school programs and events) • Contact Emmanuelle Buecher Hall: Via School Website • Future of Education Conference: https://www.thefutureofeducationsummit.com/ • DATTA Queensland: www.dattaqld.org.au 

Connect With Us: ● Host: Stephen Anderson – [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

In this episode, Stephen Anderson chats with Keith Alexander, Student Engagement Coordinator at QUT’s Faculty of Engineering. Keith shares how QUT opens its doors to high school students through design and engineering workshops, offering hands-on experiences that align with school curriculums. From speed sketching to future city planning with Lego, these workshops inspire creativity and problem-solving. We also touch on what’s coming for teachers—like professional development and micro-credentials—and practical tips for bringing students to campus. 

Key Topics Discussed Design Workshops: What Students Can Expect Keith walks us through a typical QUT design workshop—think student ambassadors, J Block studios, and activities like sketching that mirror university-level skills. Beyond Design: Engineering & Future Cities From engineering problem-solving to the upcoming Future Cities Lab at the World Science Festival, QUT offers a range of workshops to excite students about STEM. Supporting Teachers New to Design or Engineering With plans for teacher PD in 2025 and beyond, Keith explains how QUT is gearing up to help educators build confidence in these subjects. Navigating QUT’s Campus with Students Practical advice on managing a group of teens at QUT—where to meet, eat, and explore—straight from Keith’s experience. Opportunities for High Achievers Learn about QUT’s Dean’s Awards (gift cards and bursaries!) and the Start QUT STEM Intensive for Year 11-12 students craving university credit. 

Links and Resources: • QUT Faculty of Engineering Engagement Page: https://www.qut.edu.au/engage/engineering (Check for updates on workshops & awards) • Contact Keith Alexander: [email protected] (For workshop inquiries) • DATTA Queensland: www.dattaqld.org.au 

Connect With Us: ● Host: Stephen Anderson – [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Madritsch, a woodwork teacher from Mullumbimby High School in NSW and the creator of The Woodwork Camp. We discuss the challenges facing woodwork teachers today, particularly with the increasing number of out-of-area teachers stepping into the workshop, and how well-structured resources can make a real difference.

Aaron shares his journey in developing video-based instructional resources and detailed project plans to help students work independently while supporting teachers in delivering effective, hands-on lessons.

🔹 The Need for Better Woodwork Teaching Resources Many schools struggle to find qualified woodwork teachers, leading to out-of-area teachers taking on the role with little experience. Aaron shares his first-hand experience and the solutions he’s created.

🔹 Encouraging Student Independence in the Workshop We explore how structured project plans and short instructional videos allow students to take ownership of their learning, reducing reliance on constant teacher intervention.

🔹 Bringing Digital Learning into Woodwork Classes Aaron talks about how integrating digital resources—such as mounted iPads, laptops, or shared screens—helps students revisit steps without needing repeated demonstrations.

🔹 The Challenges of Teaching Woodwork in Schools Today From safety concerns to limited curriculum support, we discuss the key difficulties that woodwork teachers face and how they can be addressed with the right resources.

🔹 Practical Advice for New & Out-of-Area Teachers Aaron provides insights for teachers new to woodwork, offering guidance on how to manage a workshop, teach practical skills, and keep students engaged.

• The Woodwork Camp Website: www.thewoodworkcamp.com

• Email Aaron Madritsch: [email protected]

• Follow Aaron on [Social Media if applicable]

• Host: Stephen Anderson  [email protected]

In this episode of the Bridge Building Podcast: From Technology to the Trades, we chat with Leighann Ness Wilson, a designer-turned-educator with a passion for fostering creativity and innovation in education. Leighann shares her journey from growing up in rural Nanango to designing workspaces across the globe and, ultimately, to teaching and researching how design thinking can transform teaching practices.

Currently completing her PhD, Leighann focuses on empowering pre-service teachers to embrace design thinking as a core component of their pedagogy. She offers insights into the challenges of teaching design in schools and why it's critical for shaping 21st-century skills like problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration.

• Leighann’s journey from interior design to education and research

• The importance of design thinking in the Australian curriculum

• How design empowers both teachers and students to think critically and creatively

• Tips for incorporating design thinking into classroom practice

• Leighann’s vision for the future of design in education

• Follow Leighann Ness Wilson on LinkedIn

• Leighann’s blog and her website too.

• Explore The Cube at QUT

• Host: Stephen Anderson  [email protected]