My story

Peta is an internationally award-winning researcher, digital designer, and technology training specialist and a recipient of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering Elevate Scholarship. It’s an exciting change of direction for someone with over 20 years experience as a Secondary School English teacher.

CQ: Did you have an interest in STEM subjects while studying at RGS?

PE: Feeling intimidated, frustrated, and foreign to Science, Engineering, and Mathematics, I opted out of studying these subjects during my senior years. Although I was naturally fascinated by science and its mysteries, my curiosity often got in the way of my learning. STEM had always been a tantalising and elusive fascination to me, and it wasn’t until recently that I found my place within the field.

CQ: What sparked your interest in STEM?

PE: Curiosity has been the driving force behind my career, rather than strategic design. My professional interest in research has always been focused on leveraging technology to transform education and training and empower individuals to thrive. This vision drives my current research, which now centres on safeguarding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in the age of big data.

CQ: What’s been your biggest challenges entering this field?

PE: My biggest obstacle in STEM has been understanding the complex terminology, concepts, and theories, which makes it difficult to make sense of the calculations. However, what motivates me to persist is not just curiosity, but a deep sense of responsibility for social justice. I also had to overcome my feeling of inferiority and ask for help, which presented another challenge. I was anxious about revealing my lack of competence in junior high maths and science, and I feared being rejected or dismissed by others. Through the STEM community I realised that asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness; but a strength that enables everyone involved to grow and succeed.

CQ: How rewarding for you is it working in this field?

PE: I have noticed a significant shift occurring, especially in my area of Extended Reality, data, and privacy. There is a renewed focus on human-centred design, ethics, and a growing need for legislative and regulatory reform. With over 20 years’ experience as an English teacher and a Design degree, my unique perspectives are valued in this evolving landscape.

CQ: Where do you see this dynamic field moving in the future?

PE: I am currently working in Extended Reality and Data Privacy, and I see this industry rapidly splitting into two directions. One direction this industry is moving towards is quantum computing and artificial intelligence to solve complex challenges and develop solutions to wicked problems that were previously inconceivable. The second direction this industry demands is a review of legislation, regulation, compliance, and accountability measures for data breaches and violations of human rights.

CQ: What advice do you have for someone who is unsure if they are a STEM person?

PE: It took me 42 years to feel invited into the field, and curiosity and social justice may not be your driving forces. Your imagination may lead you towards a career in STEM… or the Arts. Either way, your imagination has the potential to inspire and effect the changes you desire in the world.

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