Michella Hill receives her INCITE Merit Award.
Michella was recognised in the Research and Innovation (Post-Graduate) category for her work developing cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) training tools to better prepare first responders for rare and high-risk out-of-hospital birth emergencies.
Her research, which is part of ECU's Simulation and Immersive Digital Technology Group, spans several disciplines and schools across the University. It addresses a critical training gap in emergency medical response, using immersive technology to deliver realistic, repeatable scenarios for first responders to improve readiness and outcomes.
ECU Senior Lecturer and Michella's supervisor, Dr Brennen Mills, said the award reflected the importance and real-world impact of Michella's work.
"This recognition is a major achievement, not only for Michella, but for ECU's continued leadership in immersive health education research. It's a testament to the power of interdisciplinary innovation," Dr Mills said.
Michella will now take her research to the national stage, presenting at the National iAwards Gala Dinner in Adelaide later this year. The iAwards is Australia's premier awards program for innovation, recognising excellence across all sectors of the digital economy.
Alumni also shine at INCITE
Clear Carbon, founded and led by ECU alumnus, Hemal Modi, enjoyed remarkable success at the INCITE Awards, winning in three different categories, winning the Sustainability and Environmental Impact award and achieving Merit awards for Startup of the Year and Research and Innovation (Industry).
Clear Carbon has developed an advanced intelligence platform that allows businesses to truly understand their carbon footprint and pursue their mission to guide Australia to net zero emissions.
Hemal, graduated in 2003 with a degree in Software Engineering and Computer Science, and has credited his time at ECU, as the foundation for Clear Carbon's mission to create a healthier planet for future generations.
The INCITE Awards is Australia's longest-running tech awards program, celebrating excellence in innovation, research, and entrepreneurship across the country.
