Suzy Urbaniak

Science educator

2020 WA Local Hero

Suzy Urbaniak wants young people to understand how to apply science to the real world. The former Newcrest geoscientist, WA science teacher, and mentor developed and is Lead of her own earth sciences program, the Centre of Resources Excellence (CoRE).

An innovative science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) program, CoRE brings together education, industry, community and government to create meaningful careers in the resources industry.

The CoRE program builds on Suzy's years of practical geology and education experience, which includes more than 74 national and international field trips. Suzy contributes to the ongoing development of the national earth sciences curriculum, and supports the Young Persons' Plan for the Planet Program, a joint initiative of Questacon UN Information Centre and other organisations, to promote sustainable development.

Her work as an educator was recognised with the Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools in 2016. She was inducted into the WA Women's Hall of Fame in 2018.