Introducing our 2025 Education Endowment Fund Scholarship Recipients
Every year the AusIMM Education Endowment Fund (EEF) Board of Trustees award the annual EEF Scholarships.
The EEF program helps identify future industry leaders among AusIMM’s student members, and ensures they are offered meaningful opportunities to develop their leadership and professional skills throughout their scholarship.
We are delighted to share the stories of our 2025 recipients, and invite you to learn about their passion for our sector and what they hope to achieve in their careers.
Holly Cook – University of Adelaide – PhD
Holly is a geologist with an early career that spans the Australian mining industry (OZ Minerals, BHP) and start-up science media (The Geo Co). Holly is currently undertaking her PhD at the University of Adelaide in association with the Australian Critical Minerals Research Centre and ARC Critical Resources for the Future.
Holly believes in the power of geological perspectives for analysing and guiding human interactions with the earth system, significantly of those related to the minerals and mining industry. Holly’s previous research blends an analysis of mine operations with the concepts of economic geology to develop innovative, industry-deployable frameworks for mine waste management towards the development of tailings deposit resources. She was awarded First Class Honours for her work at Prominent Hill, which represented a collaboration between BHP, the University of Adelaide and the University of Queensland.
Holly is driven by curiosity, connection and questions about the natural world. She enjoys ideating and storytelling at the frontiers between geoscience, industry and society, believing this to be where shared Earth futures emerge. Holly founded science media project ‘The Geo Co’ in early 2023, where she now co-hosts the science podcast Wonder. Today, when not podcasting, Holly can be found completing her PhD on some of the worlds strangest and most valuable rocks – carbonatites – with attention to the complex subsurface systems from where they emerge, as well as their association with critical metal mineralisation.
Isabelle Spanswick – James Cook University – Bachelor of Geology
When unsure of her study and career path after high school, Isabelle was guided by her strong interest in earth sciences and large-scale natural processes. This ultimately led to geology and, given her passion to make a meaningful impact within the discipline, Isabelle’s interest has been cemented and continued to grow.
It was through her membership of the AusIMM North Queensland student chapter that Isabelle’s determination to make a positive contribution to the mining industry was first established. As chapter Vice President in 2024, Isabelle’s focus was (and continues to be) creating a supportive and inclusive community at James Cook University, a sentiment that she hopes to carry throughout her career.
Through her studies, Isabelle has developed a particular interest in geochemistry and plans to pursue an Honours Degree in this area. After acquiring invaluable experience though vacation work with QCoal’s exploration department, Isabelle is eager to work as an exploration geologist after graduation.
Tom McAuley – University of Tasmania – Bachelor of Science (Earth Science)
Three years ago Tom decided to make the transition from a technical writer to a geologist. Tom says that this decision has not only enriched his life experience and provided a new and alternative career path, but has also provided an opportunity to cross paths with many impressive and inspirational people.
Before returning to study, Tom worked in the IT industry with a significant amount of work documenting mining software packages. It was through this experience that Tom moved closer to the mining industry and the opportunity to work on a series of mining project feasibility studies as a report editor, which is where he became fascinated with the architecture of projects and specifically, their geology.
Tom has thoroughly enjoyed his studies at the University of Tasmania and plans to commence an honours project with the Centre for Ore Deposit and Earth Sciences (CODES) at a Cu-Au breccia complex near Tongling, China. Tom has been fortunate to complete a 9-month internship at Alkane’s Tomingley Gold Mine during the Roswell/San Antonio expansion, and over the 2024-25 summer break worked an internship with First Quantum Minerals classifying their exploration rock library.
Tom considers his change in career direction to be life-changing and will be forever grateful to those individuals and organisations who have supported him along the way.
Isha Jain – University of Adelaide – Bachelor of Engineering (Mining)
Isha has recently completed her second year at the University of Adelaide and is passionate about contributing to a sector that supports global megatrends such as electrification and decarbonisation, while addressing associated and inherent challenges.
As an active AusIMM Adelaide Branch student member, Isha has leveraged networking events and technical lectures to expand her industry knowledge and professional connections. This year, she served as the Mining Engineering Representative of the Adelaide Student Chapter, actively participating in the New Leaders Summit, National Mining Games, and mining conferences. In 2025, Isha will assume the role of Vice President of the Chapter, driving initiatives to strengthen student-industry connections and inspire peers to actively engage with the resources sector through impactful events and programs. Having recently been appointed as Student Communicator for the Energy and Mining Resources Sector Outreach program, Isha will visit high schools and speak to her experience and showcase fulfilling career pathways in the resources sector.
During the 2024-25 summer break, Isha engaged in a mining engineering internship with BHP’s short-term scheduling team at Olympic Dam, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and building a solid foundation for her future career.
Isha is honoured to receive an AusIMM EEF Scholarship and hopes to gain insights, personalised guidance and professional support through the mentorship program to accelerate her career growth.
Matthew Robinson – University of Western Australia – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mining)/Bachelor of Commerce (Finance)
Matthew is about to commence his penultimate year of study with the University of Western Australia. Majoring in Mining Engineering and Finance, he is passionate about the mining industry, which offers not only unique challenges, but also encourages innovative problem solving.
Following graduation Matthew hopes to combine his knowledge of both his study discipline areas to improve the mining industry on an operational scale. Since joining AusIMM, Matthew has been actively involved in the UWA Student Chapter, commencing as a General Committee member, then competing in the 2024 mining games and recently being appointed Mining Games Coordinator, where he will be working to help organise the 2025 Asia Pacific Mining Games Competition.
Through AusIMM Matthew has been provided with networking opportunities including the New Leaders Conference and mine site tours, where the complex and dynamic challenges of underground operations were highlighted. Matthew has spent the summer university break as part of the IGO Limited ventilation team at the Nova Operation, acquiring invaluable practical experience.
Shreyas Raman – University of Queensland – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Science (Chemical & Metallurgical)
Shreyas is passionate about the future of the resources industry and excited to begin his career in the field. Shreyas is attracted to the challenges faced by the resources industry, particularly those related to the transition to renewable energy, and the opportunity to contribute to solving these is an exciting prospect.
Early in his degree, Shreyas completed two internships at BHP’s Caval Ridge and Goonyella-Riverside operations, the latter in a process engineering role. Through this experience, valuable problem solving and critical thinking skills have been developed which will stand him in good stead in his future career.
Shreyas is a member of the UQ Liveris Academy and holds a research assistant position at the University’s Pyrometallurgy Innovation Centre. In 2024, Shreyas joined a team of UQ finance and engineering students for the Deloitte Climate and Engineering Case Competition. In this capacity he delivered a comprehensive asset management strategy to senior partners at Deloitte for the electrification of a fleet of forty haul trucks on a WA mine site, which saw his team awarded first place in the Queensland-wide competition.
Ayla Edwards – Monash University – Bachelor of Geology (Honours)
Ayla completed her Bachelor of IT and Bachelor of Science at Monash University in 2024, earning the 'Earth Sciences Academic Excellence Award: Dux of the Graduating Class'. She is currently undertaking Honours in Geology, focusing on applying automated 3D geological and resource modelling on the poly-deformed Hemlo deposit in Canada. This research project is being conducted in conjunction with Barrick Gold, Loop3D and Monash University.
Ayla is passionate about sustainability and hopes to combine her technical IT and geology skills to help solve some of the modern problems faced by the resources sector while enhancing economic, environmental and social outcomes. She is currently the AusIMM Melbourne Student Chapter Vice President and plays an active role in various university groups. She has completed stints of work at Loop3D, CSIRO (Mineral Resources) and Origin Energy.
Outside of her studies, Ayla enjoys spending time in the outdoors, adventuring, collecting rocks and creating functional art pieces.
Bella Melov – University of New South Wales – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)(Mining)/Bachelor of Commerce (Finance)
Bella is entering her third year of Mining Engineering (Honours) and Finance at UNSW. Her passion for engineering stems from a love of mathematics and problem-solving. She chose mining because of its large-scale projects, the tangible nature of the work and its critical role in supporting the Australian economy.
At the end of her first year, Bella completed BHP’s internship program at Broadmeadow Mine, where she gained hands-on underground experience with the longwall crew. She continued to develop her technical skills by working part-time as an undergraduate mining engineer in the mine planning team. Following her second year, Bella broadened her experience by taking on a production engineering role at Evolution Mining’s Cowal Gold Operations. These opportunities have provided her with invaluable practical experience that complement her studies, while helping her develop a deep appreciation for the strong team culture within the industry.
Bella is actively involved in the student chapter community, serving as Secretary for AusIMM's Sydney Student Chapter, Treasurer of the Minerals and Energy Resources Society, and Student Ambassador for UNSW's Minerals and Energy Resources School and the Sydney Mining Club. Through these roles, she fosters connections between students and professionals while promoting the resources sector.
Bella is passionate about inspiring young women to consider careers in mining and is committed to changing people's perceptions of the industry.
Elliot Tom – University of Wollongong – Bachelor of Mining Engineering
Growing up in a regional mining town and given an interest in earthworks, Elliot knew at an early age he would work in a mine once he finished school. Interests at high school included practical design projects, maths and complex problem solving. When these were combined with gentle parental encouragement, the study of engineering at tertiary level was a logical choice.
It wasn’t until the first year at university that Elliot fully realised the scope of opportunity that a career in mining offered. Through various vacation placements, Elliot has been able to translate practical experience to his studies and hopes that this will continue. When combined with the EEF experience Elliot hopes to expand his networks while refining his understanding of the industry to better position himself for early career success.
Away from study and work, Elliot likes to pursue other ways to test his physical and mental limitations and takes great pride in ultra running.
Tahnee Dilger – University of Queensland – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil & Mining)
Tahnee is a third-year Engineering (Honours) student at the University of Queensland (UQ). Actively involved in the AusIMM Southern Queensland Student Chapter, Tahnee has participated in events including the recent Mining Games as a member of the ‘Golden Girls’ team which won the women’s division at the local and national levels.
In her first year of study, Tahnee joined UQ’s Mining and Metallurgy Association, becoming Media Officer in 2024. As a UQ Women in Engineering Student Leader, Tahnee has been able to mentor and present to outreach events in Brisbane and her hometown. A key aim is to be able to help and support young women who aspire to career paths beyond traditional boundaries and limitations. Tahnee has acquired practical experience through a residential vacation program at Glencore’s George Fisher Mine and a FIFO position at MMG’s Dugald River Mine in North West Queensland, where she worked in technical and operational roles.
As the newly elected President of UQ MAMA, Tahnee is looking forward to delivering high-value events for fellow student members and organising participation in the 47th Intercollegiate Mining Games in Camborne, UK.
Louis Snow – University of New South Wales – Bachelor of Engineering (Mining)
For Louis, the pursuit of a mining engineering degree was an opportunity to improve his understanding of the industry and play an active part in its evolution. The award of an AusIMM EEF scholarship will provide him with agency to not only succeed in his studies, but also make meaningful and rewarding connections with fellow members in the industry.
It was his experience as an exchange student to the Czech Technical University in Prague that encouraged a focus on academic application and the expansion of technical knowledge and skills. Through the EEF scholarship, Louis hopes to grow connection with like minded students, embrace the mentoring opportunity offered and cement a career path in industry.
Jack McKenzie – University of Adelaide – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Chemical)
Jack is enrolled in chemical engineering at the University of Adelaide, majoring in minerals processing which he hopes will cement his desire for a career in the resources sector. Jack is actively engaged in all aspects of university life, having served on the AusIMM Adelaide Student Chapter in 2024 and engaged with the Chemical Engineers Society since 2023.
Through his involvement with major events in these societies, Jack has managed to grow a strong network of professionals in the sector, something that he credits, in part, to AusIMM. With three more years of university remaining, he is excited to build this network even further using the opportunities provided by the EEF scholarship.
Jack believes the resources sector is pivotal to Australia and aspires to encourage others to consider the pursuit of studies in relevant areas in order that they too might contribute to a more efficient and sustainable future for this important economic powerhouse.
Charlie Lentfer – University of New South Wales – Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical) (Honours)
Charlie is a third-year Chemical Engineering (Honours) student at the University of New South Wales, driven by a passion for collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership. Originally from the Hunter region, Charlie understands the critical role of the mining and minerals industry in supporting Australia’s economy, communities, and sustainable future. His goal is to become a leader in the sector during this transformative period by driving innovative solutions to meet society’s evolving demands.
Charlie got his first taste for the industry through his 2023-24 summer internship at Orica, where he worked on Bulkmaster assets. This experience gave him insight into the mining services industry and has inspired Charlie to pursue further experiences in the sector. Charlie also recently completed a six-month internship at Tooheys Brewery. While not mining-specific, his work at Tooheys equipped him with valuable transferable skills in process engineering, quality and safety at scale and leadership in industrial operations.
Charlie is eager to join the AusIMM EEF program to deepen his understanding of the mining industry, connect with like-minded peers from across the country, and access opportunities to accelerate his career development in this pivotal sector.
Katya (Ekaterina) Orlova – Australian National University – Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) (Earth Science)
Katya has recently completed her second year of a Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) at the ANU, majoring in Earth Science with a specialisation in Petrology and Geochemistry. Since early 2023, she has been actively involved with the AusIMM Canberra Student Chapter, serving as Secretary and stepping into the role of co-president in 2025.
AusIMM has been invaluable to Katya’s professional development, providing opportunity to participate in a variety of events including Student Meets Industry Nights, Thesis Competitions and Congress 2024.
Katya was initially drawn to a career in the resources industry due to the wide variety of career options available to make meaningful contributions to Australia’s future development. She believes that mining is essential to shaping a sustainable future and working in the industry provides her with the best chance of making a tangible impact on the planet. Katya’s first exposure to the industry was ‘The Great Mining Expedition’ – a first year AusIMM trip to the mines of Central West NSW, where conversations with mining professionals sparked her interest in resources. Since then, she has been lucky enough to work both at CSA Mine for Metals Acquisition Corp and at Newmont’s Cadia operation. Through this exposure she developed valuable insight into working as a both an exploration and mining geologist. These experiences provided a broad understanding of the industry and helped cement a passion for a future of working in mining.
Jack Pengilly – University of Wollongong – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Bachelor of Business (Finance)
Entering into the fifth year of a double degree, Jack continues to be fascinated and excited by the challenges posed in each of the mining engineering and finance disciplines. He has just completed a cadetship at Appin mine, which enabled him to gain hands on practical experience which reinforced academic learnings. Jack is a proud member of the AusIMM Illawarra Student Chapter, having served as treasurer over the past two years and pivoting to the role of Vice President in 2025.