New Council role for CQU alumnus, industry innovator

Newest CQUniversity Council member Steven Boxall is a familiar face across Central Queensland, as CEO of CQU industry partner, the Resources Centre of Excellence. 

But the Mackay-based industry leader’s history with CQU goes back much further, to his fresh-faced days as a student in the Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management) at CQUniversity. 

Mr Boxall said his appointment to University Council in July 2023 was “incredibly humbling”.

“A lot of my personal and professional success has come as a direct result of the head start I got from CQUniversity,” he said. 

Mr Boxall graduated in 1994, then embarked on decades of experience across leadership and management, most recently as the founding CEO of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) since 2020. 

“RCOE is a collaborative platform that connects and supports the resources sector in Australia, and we’re currently driving the expansion into our Stage 2, Future Industries Hub and Stage 3 in the Isaac Region,” he explained.

He’s also held roles across business, industry and local government, including as CEO of Barcaldine Regional Council.

“I am passionate about driving change and creating value in the resources sector, and for our communities more broadly – through a culture of collaboration, diversity, and excellence in my teams and organisations,” he said. 

CQUniversity is a research partner of the RCOE, which provides world-class facilities for resource development, including an underground mine simulated training and testing facility, emerging technology capabilities, and training and conference facilities.

The organisation is also driving initiatives for sustainable futures, through decarbonisation and circular economy.

Chancellor Graeme Innes AM welcomed Mr Boxall to Council, and said his appointment highlighted CQUniversity’s commitment to collaboration. 

“CQUniversity’s connection with community is built on our meaningful engagement across diverse partnerships, regions and industries,” Mr Innes said.

“Mr Boxall’s experience leading innovation in the resources industry brings an exciting perspective, as Council ensures CQU’s strategic direction is sustainable and future-ready, for our students, our research and our communities.” 

Mr Boxall said joining CQU Council aligned with his enthusiasm for learning from others, and exploring new opportunities.

“In the past three years, as the RCOE has evolved, it’s demonstrated the dedication, hard work, and relentless pursuit of excellence across our regions and our communities,” he said.

“That is thanks to our partners including CQUniversity, and it’s exciting to be joining an organisation that has also embraced innovation, and is adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of regional Queensland, and beyond.”