Alcoa’s Pinjarra and Wagerup refineries have welcomed their newest apprentices, with some locals among the few to join the team.
Pinjarra and South Yunderup residents Noah Batty and Claudia Arthurs are two of thirteen apprentices who will develop skills in Electrical Instrumentation, Mechanical Fitting, Metal Fabrication or Heavy-Duty Mechanics as part of their apprenticeships.
Alcoa’s call for apprenticeships for its refineries and mine sites attracted more than 600 applications.
Only 25 apprentices, a third of whom are female, have joined Alcoa for the 2019 intake of the four-year apprenticeship program.
Set to graduate the apprenticeship as electrical and instrumentation technicians, Mr Batty and Ms Arthurs both have family members who work for Alcoa who recommended the company for its’ supportive working environment.
Mr Batty, who has previously worked in the field, said he is enjoying the change of work environment.
“Learning how to use the different machinery safely with the expertise, knowledge and support from Alcoa employees makes this apprenticeship very valuable,” he said.
Ms Arthurs said she appreciates the hands-on learning experience the apprenticeship offers.
“Working in a workshop, surrounded by a great group of people has been the highlight so far,” she said.
“I find it interesting how people think differently and complete tasks in a different way.
“It encourages you to work creatively.”
Alcoa of Australia chairman and managing director Michael Parker said the program produced workers who were adaptable and brought a positive attitude.
“It is important to invest in the future of our company through the offerings of training programs and development opportunities,” he said.
“Our aim is to make Alcoa’s apprenticeship program the very best in industry.
“There was fierce competition for the 25 positions available and I am particularly delighted to welcome more females into these roles.
“I am confident all the successful candidates will thrive in their new roles.”
The apprentices are currently completing a hands-on rotating training program to enhance their skills in each trade offered to prepare them for the apprenticeship.
Seven apprentices will be based at Kwinana Alumina Refinery, eight at Pinjarra Alumina Refinery, five at Wagerup Alumina Refinery, three at Huntly Mine and two at Willowdale Mine.
Applications for Alcoa’s 2020 apprentice intake will open in June, 2019. For more information, visit the Alcoa website.
