Alcoa apprenticeships a boost for youth employment

Alcoa continues its commitment to maintaining a skilled workforce at its Western Australian operations, even in the shadow of COVID-19 and a weakened economy, launching its 2021 apprenticeship recruitment campaign last week.

The resources company has a long history of training generations of skilled tradespeople and in a continuation of the tradition will recruit 24 apprentices to commence in January 2021.

The boost to youth employment will see four-year apprenticeships offered with successful applicants earning a nationally recognised trade certificate in mechanical fitting, heavy-duty plant mechanics, fabrication and welding or industrial electrical instrumentation.

All roles are offered with industry competitive remuneration and benefits, and employees can live close to operations which are in the Peel region and Perth metropolitan area.

Rockingham resident Neesh Truscott is a first-year Mechanical Fitter apprentice at Alcoa’s Kwinana Alumina Refinery and knows she has been given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“I knew when I saw the apprenticeship program advertised, I had to secure a mechanical fitter role as it’s where my passion lies after tinkering on engines as a kid with my Dad,” Ms Truscott said.

“I had also enjoyed a tour of the refinery and I was so impressed by its size, the activity and all that goes into the Bayer process.

“If you’re thinking about applying for an apprenticeship I say, ‘just do it’. You will not regret it as Alcoa is a great company to work for and the apprenticeship will set you on a clear career path. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

Alcoa Human Resources and Employee Relations Director Matthew Gleeson added the company remains committed to skills development for current and future workers.

“These might be uncertain times, but we have stable and efficient operations in Western Australia that will exist for decades to come and tradespeople are critical to our ongoing success,” Mr Gleeson said.

“Currently we have 101 apprentices working in our WA operations and we want to attract another 24 who are motivated, positive and committed to learning.

“We’re looking for people with problem-solving and communication skills and who like to be involved in their communities and other activities,” Mr Gleeson said.

Mr Gleeson also proudly highlighted Alcoa offers a diverse and inclusive workplace which supports women, people of different backgrounds and those with a variety of skills and life experiences.

Apply now: Alcoa website.