Workforce Development program producing even more skilled employees
apprentices graduate at Whyalla operations
OneSteel Manufacturing and its Workforce Development Program reached another major milestone when 23 more apprentices completed their programs, earning trade certification and transitioning into tradesperson positions in the business.
Since 2020, the business has engaged 107 apprentices. With the completion of this cohort, which commenced apprenticeships in 2022, the total number of apprenticeship completions since the updated OneSteel Manufacturing Pty Ltd (Administrators Appointed) (‘OneSteel’) program was established stands at 58.
This graduating group adds to the organisation’s long history of tradespeople who completed their apprenticeships at the Whyalla Steelworks.
Significantly, every member of the latest graduating class for the steelworks and iron mining operations comes from Whyalla or nearby areas, with all apprentices successfully completing their programs.
It can’t be underestimated how important it is to have the pipeline of talent coming through the business, filling gaps, bringing new enthusiasm, passion and ultimately new ideas to our operations
Rebecca Harris
Katie Docking, Workforce Development Pipelines Advisor, explained that the high retention rate can be attributed to recruiting locally, providing comprehensive hands-on training, offering dedicated workplace support and mentorship, maintaining strong partnerships with training providers, and prioritising safety throughout the program.
“It is a wholistic approach to apprentice development that starts with working out the needs of our business when it comes to trades,” Katie said.
“Our training modules emphasise the importance of on-the-job learning with day-to-day contact with experienced tradespeople backed up by regular engagement between the apprentices, supervisors, business unit managers and Workforce Development support staff.
“We are fortunate to have highly skilled apprentice trainers and outstanding tradespeople who perform these roles with great enthusiasm, passion and genuine care for those under their guidance as they lay the building blocks for strong foundational skills, ensuring they have the confidence and capability to succeed.
“Their commitment to mentorship and hands-on learning creates an environment where apprentices feel supported and empowered to grow their skillset.
Our training modules emphasise the importance of on-the-job learning with day-to-day contact with experienced tradespeople backed up by regular engagement between the apprentices, supervisors, business unit managers and Workforce Development support staff.
Katie Docking
“With strong support networks, great mentorship, and rewarding opportunities right here in the town they grew up in, there is every reason for them to successfully complete their apprenticeship and build fulfilling long-term careers close to home.”
The 23 graduating apprentices consist of 10 fitters, one fabricator, two machinists, eight electrical, and two instrumentation fitters.
Workforce Development Lead – Early Careers, Rebecca Harris said this shows OneSteel is making big inroads to fill the gaps in its skilled workforce to further progress the stabilisation of the steelworks and mining operations made possible by the State and Federal government’s support package.
“It can’t be underestimated how important it is to have the pipeline of talent coming through the business, filling gaps, bringing new enthusiasm, passion and ultimately new ideas to our operations,” Rebecca said. “The six years of this program, together with our Vacation Students and Graduates programs, have re-invigorated our workforce in Whyalla.
“It’s a collaboration that is meeting the needs of the business and setting us up for an exciting future.”
Since 2020, OneSteel has onboarded a total of 123 apprentices. The four-year program commences with a year under apprentice trainers before three years of hands-on training across different areas of the plant to gain diverse experience and practical knowledge.
Pictures – Main picture and top right: Apprentice training is complemented with TAFE SA courses. Above right: Whyalla apprentices celebrate award recognition at the Mine Spec Whyalla Business & Tourism awards, from left, Whyalla Iron Ore General Manager Jared Fechner, Chris Reeves 3rd year apprentice fitter, Cassie Davies 4th year electrical, William Dinedios 4th year fitter, Whyalla Steelworks General Manager Amrit Mangat and General Manager Supply Train Hayley Perkins.
