The ME Program is funded by Australia’s Department of Defence to deliver industry-led workforce development activities. It connects Hunter Defence Industry with its future workforce, increases students’ awareness of defence industry careers and pathways to them, and it upskills students in preparation for STEM jobs. Facilitating formal partnerships between Hunter Defence Industry and high schools, the ME Program has a strong focus on development STEM skills in students from years 7 to 12 in readiness for the jobs that industry requires, while ensuring Defence Industry has access to a talent pool with relevant skills.