Leonie Walsh facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Leonie Walsh
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| Alma mater | Swinburne University |
Leonie Walsh is a very important Australian scientist and leader. She was the first "Lead Scientist" for the state of Victoria from 2013 to 2016. This means she was the top science advisor for the government there. She also helped encourage more women to work in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEMM). Swinburne University gave her a special honorary doctorate degree. This was to thank her for her great work in science, new ideas, and helping the community.
Early Life and Education
Leonie Walsh grew up in a country town. From a young age, she loved mathematics and chemistry. Her teachers at Mildura Technical School encouraged her interest in science.
In 1998, Leonie faced a serious health challenge. She received a special medical treatment from her sister, Susan. After this, Leonie decided to help others going through similar situations. She joined a group that supports patients and their families. Later, she became the president and chairman of the Fight Cancer Foundation in 2015. This foundation helps people affected by serious illnesses.
Leonie studied at Swinburne University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Master of Science (MSc) degrees. She also has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Australian Graduate School of Management. She is a respected member of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering.
Career Highlights
Leonie Walsh is a skilled leader and advisor in new technologies. She has over 30 years of experience working in many different industries. She has worked for big companies like Visy, South East Water, Henkel, and Dow Chemical.
From 2013 to 2016, Leonie was the first Lead Scientist for the state of Victoria. In this important role, she advised the government on science and technology. She helped with plans for education and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs. She also represented Victoria on a national group of chief scientists. Leonie served on many government and industry groups. These groups focused on new ideas, education, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.
More recently, Leonie has focused on renewable energy and clean technology. She is the Chair of the Board for the Center for New Energy Technologies (C4NET). She also works with AusNet Services and is a board member for groups that promote clean energy in Victoria. She has also worked on how to store energy and develop new energy technologies for Australia.
Supporting STEMM Careers
Leonie Walsh is a strong supporter of women in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine). She mentors young people and often speaks about leadership in these fields. She has appeared in the media many times, encouraging more women to pursue careers in technology and science.
She has spoken at events, like Science Week at the University of Melbourne, about the many different science careers available. Leonie believes in mentoring and helping more women join and stay in STEMM jobs. She also works to break down old ideas about what science and technology careers are like in different industries and universities.
Awards and Recognition
Leonie Walsh has received many awards and honors for her important work:
- 2016 – 2019 – She was the first ambassador for Women in STEMM Australia.
- 2016 – She was a judge for the ANZ Sunraysia Daily Mildura Innovation awards.
- 2015 – She became the Chair and President of the Fight Cancer Foundation.
- 2014 – Swinburne University of Technology gave her an Honorary Doctorate.
- 2013 – 2016 – She served as the first Lead Scientist for the Victorian Government.
- 2012 – She became a Fellow of the Academy of Technology and Engineering.
