Strategic Initiatives 2026

HISH is expanding beyond academic education into practise with industrial workforce development, circular economy pilots, and real pathways for our renewable energy education pipelines.

Pilot Phase • Seeking Partners

Upper Hunter Future Skills Foundry

Location: Muswellbrook | Focus: Circular Economy & Youth Employment

A "Transition to Work" facility designed to process regional e-waste while providing accredited skills training for local youth. This project applies Industry 5.0 principles to resource recovery, creating a local supply chain for reclaimed copper and precious metals.

Key Objectives

• Divert 25+ tonnes of e-waste from Upper Hunter landfill annually.
• Establish a self-sustaining social enterprise revenue model.
• Deliver "hands-on" industrial safety and technical training.

Partners & Funding

• Lead: HISH Executive Committee
• Status: Feasibility Study & Site Acquisition
• Investment Opportunity: Foundation Partner positions open for FY26.

Active Program

Hunter Valley Electric Vehicle Challenge

Location: Newcastle & Hunter | Focus: STEM Pipeline & Net Zero

The region's premier STEM engineering challenge. We engage 50+ schools annually in designing, building, and racing solar and electric vehicles. This program directly feeds the engineering pipeline for the Hunter's energy transition.

Impact Data

• 15+ Years of continuous operation.
• 2,000+ Students engaged annually.
• Alumni currently employed in Engineering & Mining sectors.

Expansion Plans

• 2026 Focus: Introduction of "Mini-EV" primary school kits.
• Delivery Partner: AiSTEM (Curriculum Development).