Trainees dig in for mining experience

For the first time in a decade, mining company Alcoa has offered nine year-long traineeships at its mine near Pinjarra and has hired two people from Rockingham for the job.

More than 1300 people applied for the traineeships, with Jesse Horsley and Lisa Clements two of the nine to make the cut.

Alcoa Huntly Bauxite Mine manager Brett Hodges said the traineeships would provide valuable experience in the industry.

“These traineeships are a great opportunity for people in our communities who are either changing careers or newly entering the workforce,” he said.

“The new recruits represent the future of our company and the industry.”

Following a two-week on-boarding program in January, the recruits will get on-the-job training in heavy-duty equipment, blasting operations, safety requirements and working as part of a team.

They will also undertake TAFE studies and finish with a nationally recognised Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations.