Western Sydney University students to get hands-on in delivery of Powerhouse Parramatta

Western Sydney University students, Sarah Abu Dareb (Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation) and Kyle Plant (Bachelor of Construction Management); Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Barney Glover AO; Member for Parramatta and Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Geoff Lee; Powerhouse Chief Executive, Lisa Havilah

Western Sydney University students will have the opportunity to play a role in the delivery of NSW’s newest Cultural Institution – the Powerhouse Parramatta.

A new partnership between Western Sydney University, Powerhouse and Infrastructure NSW will see students engage in co-designed curriculum activities directly connected to this transformational project across Architecture, Building Design, Construction Management, Engineering and Industrial Design.

Intersecting throughout the project cycle of Western Sydney’s first major NSW Cultural Institution, the next generation of students from the University’s School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment will have unparalleled access to learning opportunities in the delivery of one of Australia’s most exciting city-defining buildings.

Powerhouse Parramatta is one of the largest structural engineering and architecturally complex projects underway in NSW.

The partnership between the NSW Government and Western Sydney University will provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Western Sydney’s next generation of architects, engineers and designers to learn and participate in the design and delivery of this cultural landmark.

The partnership framework will include teaching and learning activities, research projects, events and ongoing Powerhouse programming opportunities with Western Sydney University.

Member for Parramatta and Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Geoff Lee said:

“Powerhouse Parramatta will be Greater Western Sydney’s first NSW Cultural Institution with education at its heart so it’s wonderful to see the strong relationship Western Sydney University has formed with the Museum.”

“The skills and insights these students will receive being connected to this major infrastructure project will be invaluable in driving their careers forward. They will be able to look back on the roles they played in a city-shaping project which will bring the world to Parramatta.”

Powerhouse Chief Executive, Lisa Havilah said:

“Powerhouse Parramatta will be a Museum that inspires generations of young thinkers, creators, inventors, engineers and scientists. We are delighted to be partnering with Western Sydney University on a program that will give students extraordinary, cross-disciplinary learnings and insights into this fascinating building project.”

“The opportunities that lie ahead for these students are so exciting, to learn from the very best and be immersed in the delivery of this remarkable building is a very rare and special opportunity.”

“We are very grateful to Western Sydney University for our partnership and the institution’s support for Powerhouse Parramatta.”

Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Barney Glover AO said:

“Western Sydney University is committed to collaborating with the Powerhouse and Infrastructure NSW to unlock unique research and learning opportunities presented by the Powerhouse Parramatta.”

“The purpose-built museum, located near the University’s technology-infused Parramatta CBD campus and its soon-to-be-completed Engineering Innovation Hub in Hassall Street, will transform the cityscape, creating a highly connected and engaged space for collaboration and discovery.”

Professor Mike Kagioglou, Dean at the University’s School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, said:

“The Parramatta CBD is an evolving hub for innovative architecture, engineering, construction and design in Australia’s fastest growing region. We’re delighted our researchers and students will have the opportunity to contribute their expertise and ideas to this once-in-a-generation innovative project, collaborating with a range of industry and government leaders to help deliver the museum. A rewarding and valuable experience for all.”

For more information about Powerhouse Parramatta, visit the website (opens in a new window).

ENDS

29 April 2021

Ali Sardyga, Media Officer

Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas