Students unearth a career in mining

Students from six local high schools have been given the opportunity to experience a career in mining thanks to our Worsley Alumina’s Work Inspirations program. Hosted in partnership with the Department of Education, the program was run at our Worsley Refinery in the South West of Australia for the fourth consecutive year.

The program helps Year 9 students understand mining career options and to consider subject choices as they enter their upper high school education. Students participated in seven vocational activities from emergency response to technology and engineering activities, as well as hands on laboratory, operator and trade experiences. The program also helps students to learn more about themselves through personality preference exercises and career talks.

Six local schools took part in the program, were nearly 30 of our employees volunteered to guide and mentor the students.

Historically, the program has targeted female students, and has been successful in preparing participants for work both at Worsley and in local industry.  This year the program has been extended to male students and offers a new career advisory component.

South32 Worsley Alumina Vice President Operations, Noel Pillay, said South32 was proud to offer the opportunity to local students.

“Work Inspirations introduces students to the wealth of opportunities a career in mining can provide at a pivotal time in their learning.  It’s fantastic to see our employees volunteer to guide and mentor potential future mining employees, providing inspiration and encouragement way beyond the classroom experience. We believe this is key to the success of the program.”

We’re working with other South West industries and the Department of Education to broaden the scope of the program so students experience a variety of natural resource and power generation businesses.