Stay Updated
Get the latest insights on emerging technologies, career opportunities, and SHEA updates delivered straight to your inbox.
Two SHEA students will win a fully funded industry internship. No experience required – just skills, drive, and a willingness to learn.
Are you ready to take the next step towards your career in technology? The SHEA Industry Ready Prize 2026, delivered in collaboration with Study and Work, is an exciting opportunity for two SHEA students to gain valuable industry experience through a fully funded internship.
The Prize recognises students who can solve problems, communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and demonstrate the skills and initiative needed to succeed in a professional environment.
You do not need previous industry experience to apply. Whether you are passionate about software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, or IT support, this is your opportunity to showcase what you can do and take a step closer to your future career.
What is the SHEA Industry Ready Prize?
The SHEA Industry Ready Prize celebrates students who demonstrate technical ability, problem-solving skills, communication, and a readiness to learn.
Two successful students will receive a fully funded industry internship, providing an opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting and gain practical experience relevant to their studies and career goals.
Through this collaboration with Study and Work, SHEA aims to help students bridge the gap between academic learning and professional experience.
Since 2007, Study and Work has matched more than 8,000 interns, trainees, graduates, and skilled migrants with over 3,000 Australian and multinational companies across Australia. Its experience connecting people with industry opportunities supports the Prize’s focus on helping students develop practical skills and prepare for their future careers. Learn more about Study and Work
The selection process focuses on more than academic knowledge. It also recognises how students approach challenges, explain their thinking, respond to feedback, and work with others.
You do not need to know everything. You just need to show us how you think, how you learn, and what you can bring to the table.
Who can apply?
If you are a SHEA student looking to develop your skills and gain practical industry exposure, the Industry Ready Prize is an opportunity to challenge yourself and demonstrate your potential.
You do not need an extensive CV or previous industry experience. We want to see your skills, curiosity, initiative, and willingness to tackle new challenges.
How does the selection process work?
The Prize involves three stages designed to help students demonstrate their technical capabilities and professional skills.
- Application
Students will complete a short application form via the Student Success Portal link on the OpenZone homepage and submit their CV and three brief written responses. This is your opportunity to introduce yourself, share your interests, and explain what makes you a strong candidate.
- Skills testing
Applicants will select one technical track and complete a practical task alongside a communication task.
Technical tracks will be confirmed based on available internship opportunities and may include:
- Software Development
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- IT Support
The skills assessment will consider how students approach problems, apply their knowledge, and communicate their ideas. Top-performing students will also receive recognition and support to strengthen their CVs and LinkedIn profiles.
- Final assessment
Shortlisted students will participate in a final assessment, held either in person or online. A panel comprising SHEA’s CEO, Dean, and Course Coordinators will review students’ submissions and ask questions to understand their thinking and approach.
Students will also participate in a mock interview covering common workplace scenarios, including problem-solving, teamwork, learning from mistakes, and balancing competing commitments.
The final stage is an opportunity to demonstrate not only what you know, but also how you approach challenges and communicate with confidence.
Why should you apply?
The SHEA Industry Ready Prize is about helping students turn their learning into career opportunities.
By participating, you can:
- Gain industry experience: Compete for one of two fully funded industry internships.
- Showcase your skills: Demonstrate your technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities.
- Build professional confidence: Practise explaining your work and responding to interview questions.
- Strengthen your professional profile: Receive recognition for your performance, with CV and LinkedIn updates for top-performing students.
- Prepare for your career: Develop the communication and workplace skills that employers value.
Even if you are new to the industry, taking part can help you better understand your strengths and identify areas for further development.
Key dates
Mark your calendar and make time to prepare your application.
- Prize launch: Tuesday, 29 September 2026
- Applications close: Tuesday, 20 October 2026
- Final assessment: Tuesday, 27 October 2026
- Winners announcement: Following the final assessment, with a celebration and certificates presented to finalists.
Ready to take the challenge?
Your first industry opportunity does not have to begin with years of experience. It can begin with a willingness to try, learn, and show what you can do.
If you are ready to demonstrate your technical skills, share your ideas, and take the next step towards your professional future, the SHEA Industry Ready Prize 2026 is an opportunity worth pursuing.
Apply for the SHEA Industry Ready Prize 2026 and take your first step towards industry experience.
Keep an eye on SHEA’s Moodle homepage and student communications for application details and updates.
