Mentoring program opens doors for future women in resources

Students at Pinjarra Senior High School are exploring education and career pathways into the resources sector, through Alcoa Australia’s Pinjarra Prospects Program.

 The long-standing partnership between Alcoa Australia and Pinjarra Senior High School helps expose young women to career prospects in  the resources industry through interactive learning experiences, site tours and hands‑on practical workshops for students currently studying Year 10. 

This year, the program celebrates its tenth anniversary in the Shire of Murray. Over the past decade, around 350 girls have participated, including a number who attended the Chamber of Minerals and Energy’s ‘Inspiring Girls Careers Forum’ last year. 

The program contiues to educate students by drawing on the expertise of Alcoa employees, who have provided real‑world insights and exposure to career pathways in industry.

Jody Wopereis, now 21 and working full-time with Alcoa as a laboratory analyst, is one of the program’s success stories. Having grown up in the Pinjarra region, she was always aware of the company through friends and family and had an interest in science from an early age.

She took part in the Pinjarra Prospects Program in Year 10, when it sparked her curiosity about the resources sector, giving her the confidence to pursue opportunities within the industry. 

“I remember being quite nervous at the time, but the program encouraged me to put myself forward and ask for opportunities,” Ms Wopereis said.

Following the program, Ms Wopereis sought work experience at Alcoa’s Huntly operations, building connections that ultimately led to a tailored traineeship for her while she completed her Certificate IV at TAFE, working two days a week alongside her studies.  

She said the ability to grow within the business, as well as the company’s strong focus on safety and environmental responsibility, had confirmed her decision to stay and build her career in the region. 

“There are  lots of opportunities at Alcoa to keep learning and developing your skills while you work,” she said. “The team members are experienced in their fields and are really approachable for guidance or mentorship. 

“Growing up here, I’ve always known of the company. Being able to work here myself, close to home, has been really rewarding. 

“I saw first-hand how the company places a strong focus on safety procedures, and has in place proper environmental and waste practices for their operations,” Ms Wopereis.

Pinjarra Senior High School Deputy Principal Fiona Davidson, who has been involved in coordinating the program for several years, said it is rewarding to watch students grow in confidence and become empowered to make informed choices about their futures.

“Alcoa’s commitment to improving education and career opprtunities for females allows our students to engage in a resources‑focused program that encourages curiosity, confidence and development of workplace competencies alongside their school-based learning,” Fiona said. Alcoa Pinjarra Alumina Refinery Transformation Lead Tom Duxbury said the program has created positive outcomes for local students by offering meaningful industry connections, practical learning experiences and opportunities in the Shire of Murray. 

  “We are proud to support young students who are considering careers in this industry, and will continue to provide our local community with opportunities that help shape the future of the next generation,” Tom said.