UniSQ partners with IBM to lead regional workforce transformation

The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) is addressing critical skills shortages in regional Queensland by empowering students from underrepresented groups with industry-relevant education and training

An ambitious new workforce development program will create pathways for students from rural and regional backgrounds, low socio-economic areas, first-generation university households, veterans, and First Nations cohorts to support Queensland’s sustainable economic growth.

Central to the initiative is UniSQ’s fast-tracked skills training model, co-designed with industry leaders to bridge education and employment gaps for priority groups.

This model accelerates training, equipping these students with industry-relevant skills directly aligned with employer needs.

Part of preparing these students for a career after university is an exciting new partnership with IBM. Through IBM SkillsBuild, a globally recognised certification program, UniSQ is integrating valuable career-focused training into its curriculum.

UniSQ Dean (Academic Transformation) Professor Lyn Alderman said the University was well-placed to support underrepresented groups in completing their education and securing employment.

“Our partnership with IBM allows us to integrate world-class, industry-recognised certifications directly into UniSQ’s programs, creating affordable, career-focused pathways that equip students with the skills they need to thrive in Queensland’s growing industries,” she said.

An example of this initiative is UniSQ’s Bachelor of Cyber Security degree, tailored specifically for veterans.

First-year students in this bespoke program complete IBM SkillsBuild certifications as part of their coursework, earning eight units of credit at no cost, equivalent to one year of full-time study.

Recent graduate of the UniSQ Bachelor of Cyber Security, veteran Shane Gibbons, said the degree helped him gain employment after transitioning from the military.

“The degree prepared me for a career in cyber security, and now I’m working in the industry in Brisbane,” he said.

“The IBM SkillsBuild certifications were useful on a practical level while also enhancing my employability.”

IBM Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Nicholas Flood said cyber security skills are becoming more essential, particularly as businesses seek to innovate with AI further.

“IBM SkillsBuild is helping students gain the in-demand skills employers are seeking in a new AI-enabled workplace,” Mr Flood said.

“Together with UniSQ, IBM connects students with skills needed to fill in-demand jobs in the innovative sectors of the future.”

Through partnerships with industry leaders like IBM, UniSQ is strengthening its role in regional workforce development, ensuring its programs are aligned with emerging industry needs.

UniSQ Associate Director Industry and Community Partnerships Rouz Fard said the IBM partnership moved education forward by directly embedding the latest industry certifications and global standards into the University’s programs.

“Partnering with IBM empowers UniSQ to respond to and anticipate the skills required by industry, better equipping our students for success and strengthening Queensland’s workforce for sustainable growth,” he said.