Nurturing the next generation of skilled workers

Alcoa is demonstrating its ongoing commitment to enhancing skills and job prospects for aspiring tradespeople in WA communities near its operations through the launch of its 2025 WA apprenticeship recruitment campaign.

Twenty-seven new apprentices will be welcomed into the four-year program in January 2025, covering the company's bauxite mines and alumina refineries in the Peel and Upper South West regions.

All positions offer competitive remuneration and benefits, and successful applicants will be awarded a nationally recognised trade certificate in mechanical fitting, heavy-duty plant mechanics, light vehicle mechanics, fabrication/welding, or electrical instrumentation technology after completing the program.

Alcoa’s Pinjarra refinery first-year mechanical apprentice Damien Farrell, from Baldivis, explained that he applied for the apprenticeship because it aligned with his interests and values.

“My passion for engineering dates back to my high school days, and I am now in a position where I can apply my skills, absorb knowledge from tradespeople with over 25 years of experience at the company, and develop both my career and confidence in this industry,” Damien said.

“What really attracted me to applying for this apprenticeship at Alcoa was their commitment to the local community, especially following my year-long cadetship with the police force where I focused on promoting the well-being and safety of people.

“I’m also proud to be part of a company that has such a huge focus on rehabilitation, as I have a strong interest in the restoration of important sites and land.

"This program is extremely valuable, and my end goal is to mentor apprentices and educate other young people about the trade industry by passing on the knowledge and skills I gain through this apprenticeship.”

Izzy Butterworth, who is training as a heavy-duty plant mechanic at Alcoa's Willowdale mine, shared that taking the leap and applying for this opportunity was a defining moment in her career.

“I've always been passionate about repairing cars and replacing parts. I was ready to take on a bigger challenge and push my mechanical skills further, which is why I saw this apprenticeship as the perfect opportunity,” Izzy said.

“My experience on site has allowed me to familiarise myself with a diverse range of machines, develop troubleshooting skills and learn about different machine components and how to repair and replace them.

“The importance that Alcoa placed on maintaining a safe work environment and promoting diversity in the workplace was something that I also valued.

“To anyone considering applying, I highly recommend just going for it. It has been the most beneficial experience for me, allowing me to meet new people, learn valuable hands-on skills and grow my career.”

Alcoa values inclusion and diversity in the workplace, providing support for women, individuals from different backgrounds, and those with a wide range of skills and life experiences.

For more than 20 years, the company has been acknowledged as an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality and has received recognition by Pride in Diversity as a Silver Tier Employer in the Australian Workplace Equality Index for LGBTI+ inclusion. 

Alcoa has trained and developed more than 2,650 apprentices, trainees and graduates in its 61 years of operation.

To apply for the apprenticeship program visit https://www.alcoa.com/careers/en/our-talent-program-opportunities#australia-talent. Applications will be accepted until 17 July 2024.