St Thomas More College Joins Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools Program

Sunnybank, QLD – St Thomas More College has officially joined Queensland’s Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools program, marking a significant step in providing students with real-world pathways into the aerospace industry. The launch event was nothing short of spectacular, as the school oval was transformed into an airport for the day, culminating in a thrilling helicopter landing in front of an excited crowd of students and staff.

The Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools program, supported by the Queensland Government, bridges the gap between education and industry by offering students exposure to aerospace careers through partnerships with leading aviation and aerospace organisations.

Principal Les Conroy explained that the initiative was driven by the talents of the school’s students, particularly those who are neurodiverse.

“We have students with exceptional abilities in maths, science, and physics, and we wanted to find a way to engage them in an industry where they are naturally gifted,” Principal Conroy said in the video above. “That’s how our journey into aerospace education began.”

Natalie Allen, Project Manager for the Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools Program, officially welcomed the college into the network at the launch event.

“It’s been fantastic to see the enthusiasm from students and school leaders,” Ms Allen said. “And what an incredible way to launch the program—with a helicopter landing right here on the oval!

“It really captured the excitement and possibilities of aerospace.”

With the school’s proximity to Archerfield Airport, St Thomas More College is well-positioned to offer both academic and vocational education and training (VET) pathways into the aviation industry. Sarah Loos, Curriculum Leader – Pedagogy & Innovation, highlighted the broad scope of the program, which prepares students for careers in aerospace engineering, aircraft maintenance, cabin crew, and beyond.

“Our program is designed to be broad and engaging,” Ms Loos explained. “Students don’t just learn about aerodynamics and flying planes—they study weather systems, develop solutions to potential aircraft crises, and even redesign airport floor plans.

“These skills are highly transferable and will prepare them for a wide range of industries.”

The Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools program provides a vital link between secondary education and the workforce, helping students transition into real-world careers while still in school.

Principal Conroy reaffirmed the school’s commitment to future-focused learning: “We are always looking for ways to give our students an edge.

“Our focus will be on STEM, the sciences, and flight.”

Loos echoed this sentiment, adding: “If you want your child to be part of a learning community that fosters critical thinking, opens doors to the aerospace industry, and supports them in reaching their dreams—then the sky is not the limit, it’s just the beginning.”

With this new partnership, St Thomas More College joins an exclusive network of forward-thinking schools preparing students for success in Australia’s growing aerospace sector.