At Ingrity, we believe data isn’t just the backbone of modern business – it’s a force for community good and a launchpad for young minds. That’s why we’re so proud of our newly introduced Data Work Experience Program, which is designed to ignite curiosity in Year 10 students, as they choose their Year 11 and 12 subjects – decisions that will ultimately shape their future careers.
Why Year 10 Matters
Year 10 is a turning point. It’s when students make subject selections that steer their university options and ultimately their career paths. Yet across Australia we are seeing alarming declines in STEM enrolments.
Domestic STEM undergraduate enrolments peaked in 2021 but fell by 3.1 % in 2022 and a further 1.4 % in 2023, with natural and physical sciences down 11 % between 2021 and 2023. (The Educator). At the same time, enrolments in general mathematics for Year 12 dropped from almost 110,000 in 2017 to just under 99,000 in 2023. (amsi.org.au)
These trends matter. Fewer STEM choices today, means fewer future data professionals tomorrow.
The AI Factor and Why Data Still Wins
Many students wonder whether AI will “replace” jobs, but the truth is simple – there is no AI without high quality data. While up to 30% of jobs may be automated by 2030 (DemandSage), the demand for people who can manage, interpret and secure data will only grow.
STEM isn’t becoming irrelevant – it’s becoming essential.
Ingrity’s Community First Approach
Community isn’t a side note for us – it’s part of our mission. We’re committed to sharing our passion for data with our people, our clients, our schools and our next generation. In this program, we intentionally pair each work experience student with a recent Ingrity Talent Program graduate; someone who is just a few years ahead who can relate, inspire and show the real world pathway into data. This peer-paired model creates connection, confidence and genuine mentorship.
Bringing Data to Life
Across one immersive week, our work experience students dive into the world of data. From understanding what data is and how it’s collected and structured, to exploring the fundamentals of analysis and why data quality truly matters. They also learn to bring information to life through visualisation and storytelling, ultimately turning a real dataset into meaningful insights.
One recent participant shared, “I gained hands on experience with real datasets and learned how to turn data into meaningful insights … the whole experience was enjoyable and inspiring.”
Imagine the Impossible
Our goal is simple – to be a data lighthouse for the community, showing students the creative, collaborative and future proof possibilities of a data career. We’re committed to helping reverse the national decline in STEM and inspiring young people to imagine the impossible.
Join us in 2026. Applications open soon. See our Careers page for more information.