June 19, 2023

Calling the next generation of skilled tradespeople

Mechanical apprentice Ashleigh Banks, from Waikiki, is thoroughly enjoying the first year of her apprenticeship with Alcoa at its Kwinana Alumina Refinery.

Alcoa Australia continues to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to cultivating skills and work prospects for the next generation of tradespeople in the WA communities near where it operates with the launch of its 2024 WA apprenticeship recruitment campaign.

A total of 33 apprentices will be recruited for the four-year program across the company’s two bauxite mines and three alumina refineries in the Kwinana, Peel and Upper South West regions.

First year mechanical apprentice at Alcoa’s Kwinana Alumina Refinery, Ashleigh Banks, from Waikiki, said there were many positive aspects to the training program and urged people to apply.

“Being able to gain an apprenticeship and go home after every shift has been great and allows me to stay close to my family,” Ashleigh said.

“I have learned so much already in my six months of my apprenticeship and really want to get my trade qualification and start my career as a mechanical fitter.”

“To anyone considering applying for an apprenticeship at Alcoa, I couldn’t recommend it more highly. It’s a great opportunity that can set you up for life."

“This apprenticeship is exactly what I wanted to do and what’s even better is I get paid to learn and meet amazing people who are as passionate as I am.”

Applications are open until 23 July. Successful applicants will start in January 2024 and at the end of four years earn a nationally recognised trade certificate in one of the job categories of mechanical fitter, heavy duty plant mechanic, fabricator/welder, electrical instrumentation technician, or light vehicle mechanic.

Alcoa’s apprentice program is both highly sought after and highly regarded. In the past four years, Alcoa apprentices have taken out two gold medals at the Worldskills Australia National Championships as well as a WA Apprentice of the Year title.

Alcoa has a proud history and commitment in training generations of skilled tradespeople. It currently employs 123 apprentices across its WA operations. In the 60 years it has operated in WA, it has trained and developed more than 2,500 apprentices, trainees and graduates.

The company offers an inclusive and safety-focused environment. It has been named an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality for more than two decades and Pride in Diversity recognises the company as a Silver Tier Employer in the Australian Workplace Equality Index for LGBTQ+ inclusion.

To find out more or apply visit www.alcoa.com/apprenticeopps-aus.