After completing dual degrees in Science (Zoology) and Education (Secondary) at The University of Queensland, Gemma began her teaching career through country service in Toogoolawah, a rural town around two hours south-west of the Sunshine Coast. What was meant to be a graduate posting turned into almost ten years of living, teaching and becoming part of a close-knit community. It was during this time that Gemma became involved in the Duke of Edinburgh program and developed a lasting appreciation for both regional and outdoor education.

While working in Toogoolawah, Gemma also completed a Master of Education specialising in STEM Education through QUT as an external student. Studying this way gave her first-hand experience of the opportunities flexible learning can create, particularly for students living and working in rural and remote communities.

Gemma's career then took her overseas to Zurich International School in Switzerland, where she worked as a middle school sience teacher. Some of her fondest professional memories come from this time, many of them well beyond the classroom. She accompanied students on trips to Belgium, Venice and Florence, supervised ski camps in the Swiss Alps, and led outdoor expeditions through the Swiss countryside. There are probably less stressful ways to travel around Europe, but these experiences reinforced what Gemma had already begun to value in Australia: some of the most meaningful learning happens when students are taken beyond the usual classroom setting.

Sharing challenges, stepping outside comfort zones and getting to know students in different contexts helped build relationships and trust that carried back into school long after the trips had ended. Gemma has seen the same thing throughout her career, whether on a biology field trip, a Duke of Edinburgh canoe expedition across Lake Somerset, or a Year 6 leadership camp at Currimundi.

After returning to the Sunshine Coast, she moved into higher education, first as a sessional academic and now as an Associate Lecturer. Her work centres on supporting future teachers as they develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they will need in contemporary classrooms. Gemma particularly enjoys the opportunity to connect educational theory with the practical realities of teaching.

Looking ahead, Gemma is interested in continuing to explore outdoor and experiential learning alongside her broader research interests in STEM education. She is particularly interested in how students experience learning, teaching and belonging, and in the kinds of educational experiences that help students feel more engaged, connected and willing to participate in STEM learning environments.