Empowering WA First Nation participants in mining

Skill Hire’s Transition to Work (TtW) program, in partnership with IronMerge, is making a significant impact in Northam, Western Australia, by providing tailored and inclusive opportunities for First Nation participants interested in the mining industry.

The FIFO utility information session, a new initiative of Skill Hire’s TtW program, is designed to offer at-risk First Nations participants a clear entry point into the mining sector. The educational program sets realistic expectations about life and work in the mines, focusing on long-term career progression and a commitment to diversity. Already, seven local participants have expressed interest in pursuing mining careers.

Transition to Work (TtW), delivered by Skill Hire (part of the IntoWork Group) in Northam, is an employability program that supports young people aged 15 to 24 with practical skills, ongoing career development, and connections to education, training and community support services.

IronMerge, an Aboriginal-owned company founded in 2019, specialises in providing tailored industrial solutions and employment services across the nation. Divisional Manager Alex Jane emphasised the importance of setting realistic expectations for participants, “We use a real ‘warts and all’ approach when we tell people about the mining industry. It’s not about rainbows and butterflies; it’s the hardest thing they’re going to do,” Alex said.

This honest and transparent approach ensures that only those who are truly committed and mentally prepared for the rigors of the job pursue it, leading to higher retention rates and better job satisfaction.

“We tell them, ‘If you don’t want to be here, that’s fine, but don’t take somebody else’s spot.’ Once we’re confident in their attitude, because their attitudes are everything, we then represent them to our clients.”

The program is open to First Nation participants of all ages, from 18 to 70, with no requirement to be attached to any particular job provider. IronMerge also offers a comprehensive training program that focuses on life values, budgeting and essential certifications like white cards and RSA.

The program has already seen significant success in exceeding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) targets. “Our clients, for example, BHP, have managed to maintain a 20 percent Aboriginal workforce and a 30 percent female workforce, significantly exceeding all of our DEI targets,” Alex said. This not only benefits the participants but also contributes to a more inclusive and representative workforce in the mining industry.

Skill Hire CEO Ben Dahlstrom said Skill Hire is committed to providing more opportunities for First Nation participants, “We believe that by investing in the potential of First Nation individuals, we are not only helping them build successful careers but also contributing to the broader community and the mining industry as a whole. This partnership is about more than just employment; it’s about building a future where everyone has a fair chance to succeed.”

The most rewarding aspect of the program, according to Alex, is seeing participants progress to senior leadership roles over time. “It’s seeing them years later as senior leaders on sites. That’s what I like to see,” he said.