Fortescue injects $25m into mining job skills

The entry-level positions include roles in safety, autonomous operations, business administration, human resources, operations and hospitality.

Fortescue hopes the skills pathways will give rise to future workers, with the company focussing on trainees that have not previously worked in the mining sector.

Fortescue chief executive officer Elizabeth Gaines said the West Australian mining sector is vital to Australia’s economy with the development necessary for the next generation mining industry workers.

“The West Australian mining sector continues to play a significant role in Australia’s economic recovery, employing thousands of people and making a substantial contribution to the state and national economies through the payment of taxes and royalties,” she said.

“In line with our commitment to ensuring communities benefit from our growth and development, we are providing new training and employment opportunities for West Australians, while also investing in the future of our workforce by ensuring there is a sustainable pipeline of talent with the necessary skills to support our business.”

Fortescue recently welcomed mine control trainees into the company for a 12-month formal training program that focusses on autonomous operations skills development

Sixty per cent of the trainees are female while 85 per cent are from an Aboriginal background.

Fortescue mine control trainee Leteasha Desmond said the mining traineeships provide a valuable opportunity for new workers.

“Mining is such a diverse industry which is constantly evolving so there are so many possibilities,” Desmond said. “These traineeships show that you do not need to have experience to get your foot in the door.”

Fortescue employs around 15,000 people throughout its operations.