Students Get Up-close Look At Alcoa Careers

Students Get Up-Close Look at Alcoa Careers

Media Release

19 June 2009

Year 10 students from the Peel and South-West regions have been given an up-close look at resources careers this month, as part of Alcoa's successful Future Women of Industry (FWOI) scholarship program.

FWOI, now in its 11th year, aims to assist, mentor and educate enthusiastic young women and provide guidance on where their future careers could take them.

49 girls from 24 schools around Kwinana, Rockingham, Pinjarra, Mandurah, Harvey, Waroona and Bunbury took part this year.

Over three consecutive days, the students participated in tours of Alcoa's operations, one-on-one buddy sessions with Alcoa employees, listened to presentations from Perth Universities, learned about opportunities for traineeships, apprenticeships and work experience at Alcoa, and learned how to prepare and present for job interviews.

WA Operations Human Resources Manager, Carl Phillips, said: "The scholarships have a unique emphasis on opening doors to the mining and refining industry which are not always the first choice for young women when deciding on careers.

"Future Women of Industry establishes networks and provides opportunities for young women to immerse themselves with peers in an intensive program that gives direct experience in the mining industry.

"What makes the program so successful is its determination to break the mould on what are seen traditionally as 'men's' or 'women's' roles.

"Almost any career in the mining industry - from operators, trades persons, laboratory technicians or engineers is open to any person and we actively support and encourage young women who have an interest and enthusiasm for a career within Alcoa."

The success of the program has been demonstrated by former scholarship participants going on to become Alcoa apprentices and trainees, tradespersons and professionals.

The FWOI scholarship program forms part of Alcoa's commitment to diversify its workforce. Currently 20 percent of managers at Alcoa are women, up from only 3 per cent a decade ago. Alcoa is committed to increasing that figure.

"Diversity in our people and diversity of thought is fundamental to getting the best ideas and outcomes for our workforce, our business and our community," Mr Phillips said.

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Media contact: Sarah Tempest 0404 800 417


SOURCE: Alcoa of Australia