Engineering a more inclusive tomorrow

Through philanthropy and leadership, The Australian National University (ANU) alumna Kim Jackson is paving the way for future changemakers in an industry still contending with gender imbalance.

As a respected engineer, investor and philanthropist, Kim supports some of Australia’s most innovative ventures. But at the heart of her work is something simpler — a strong belief that access and opportunity can change lives.

The Kim Jackson Scholarship — delivered in partnership between the SKIP Foundation, led by Kim, and the ANU College of Systems and Society (CSS) — supports female identifying students from regional and rural Australia to study engineering at ANU. The scholarship provides financial support, along with academic and mentoring opportunities to help scholars thrive.

Coming to ANU was truly transformative. Suddenly, I was immersed in a community of people who were passionate about math and science and focused on making the world a better place. For a young woman from Yeppoon, that experience was empowering. It made me believe, this could be me!

— Kim Jackson, ANU alumna and SKIP Foundation founder

Graduating in 2002 with a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and a Bachelor of Commerce, Kim continues to excel in fields where women are often underrepresented.

In March 2025, Kim returned to the ANU campus for her annual Kim Jackson Scholars luncheon and visit — an opportunity to connect with the students and hear about their journeys. The event marked an exciting announcement: the SKIP Foundation will increase the Kim Jackson Scholarship to $25,000 annually. 

The atmosphere in the room was electric, with emotions running high among students. For Kim, the goal is simple: to empower future leaders and changemakers who will shape the world of tomorrow.

Engineering is about collaboration. It’s not an individual pursuit; it’s about being part of a team, and more women need to be part of that team.

— Kim Jackson, ANU alumna and SKIP Foundation founder

Kim reflected on her own journey, “You can’t be what you can’t see.”

“I envision these women going on to create groundbreaking companies, instigate meaningful change, and lead with purpose,” says Kim. “I hope they become the visible role models that the next generation of girls needs to see what’s possible.” 

With the continued support of Kim Jackson and the SKIP Foundation, more talented CSS students are finding the confidence, support and community they need to pursue their ambitions in engineering and beyond.