Ryland O'Connell | STEM Project Officer
Hastings Secondary College - Port Macquarie Campus

Ryland O’Connell is a dedicated STEM Project Officer and Technology Teacher at Hastings Secondary College in regional New South Wales. With a passion for hands-on learning and equitable access to STEM education, Ryland plays a leading role in the Hastings Academy of STEM Excellence under the NSW Department of Education’s STEM Industry School Partnerships (SISP) program. Ryland brings extensive experience in developing and delivering innovative STEM programs, including mentoring high-achieving robotics teams in both the FIRST Robotics Competition and FIRST LEGO League. His students have achieved national success and represented Australia on the international stage, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and inclusion in STEM learning. Working across schools and industry, Ryland fosters partnerships that bridge classroom learning with real-world STEM careers. He is particularly focused on empowering students from disadvantaged and diverse backgrounds to pursue opportunities in science and technology through authentic, project-based learning. Ryland is a strong advocate for the integration of emerging technologies in education and is committed to supporting both teachers and students in building future-ready skills. His work continues to strengthen the role of regional schools in Australia’s STEM ecosystem.