Cherbourg local Siehanna Mickelo has embraced the tech industry, representing a significant step for both her and the community.

As a Kabi Kabi, Gungarri, and Gangaglu woman, her story showcases the power of digital inclusion initiatives which bring on-Country tech roles to Indigenous communities.

Ms Mickelo's journey into the tech field was unexpected.

"Essentially, I just fell into this field," she said.

"In 2021, I really needed a job to support my kids, and I heard about how our recycling centre in Cherbourg had a new AI program, and that the program needed a coordinator.

"I had no idea what an AI coordinator does, nor did I really know anything about artificial intelligence, but I applied for it and got the job."

Her success with the AI recycling program, which tracked container counts at the material recovery facility, led Cherbourg to be selected as the host for Queensland's first First Nations Digital Service Centre.

Part of a broader initiative by DB Results in partnership with the Queensland Government and Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, the Centre aims to increase digital inclusion in Indigenous communities.

The initiative has created 50 digital jobs in Cherbourg so far, with plans for another centre in Yarrabah.

Ms Mickelo sees the initiative as a game changer for her community.

"It brings opportunities into our community that were never available to us before, while expanding our employment possibilities," she said.

"It encourages our people to try something new while still in the comfort of our community.

"We also have the support of our people teaching us rather than outsiders that don't come from our home."

Ms Mickelo said thanks to the initiative logistical challenges, such as not having a driver's licence, are no longer barriers to good digital jobs.

After coordinating the AI project, Ms Mickelo transitioned into software testing.

She first worked on a software development project for a major insurance company and now contributes to a team developing a mobile app for the Queensland Government's hardship payments.

"It's an empowering feeling to say that I'm working on a Government app that will also be used by our people," she said.

What excites Ms Mickelo most is how the initiative is opening new doors for Indigenous communities in the tech space.

"It brings more of our people into the digital space and allows us to be involved and participate in the digital world of today," she said.

"We are not being left behind because we now have digital jobs accessible to us in our homes."

She also values the opportunity for personal growth within the industry.

"What excites me most is we have the potential to grow in all directions," she said.

"For example, I'm currently a software tester for DB Results, but if I want to, DB Results will give me the opportunity to explore areas of development or UI creation to expand my skills."

As Queensland heads towards its next election, the importance of digital inclusion in Indigenous communities like Cherbourg cannot be overstated.

Ms Mickelo's story highlights how tech jobs can bridge the gap and empower communities to engage with a digitised future.