Insights
Aurizon apprentices now fully-fledged tradespeople in their chosen field
Aurizon is fully committed to embracing a diverse and inclusive team and has welcomed the opportunity to increase the gender diversity within the maintenance team
Electrician, Eleesa and Fitter/Welder, Chloe have both completed four years of training with the rollingstock maintenance team for our Bulk haulage business in Townsville and are now fully-fledged tradespeople in their chosen fields.
Aurizon is fully committed to embracing a diverse and inclusive team and has welcomed the opportunity to increase the gender diversity within the maintenance team. The Company looks forward to supporting these two new tradespeople in their careers in roles which have been historically filled by males.
In the week of International Women’s Day (8 March 2020), Aurizon employees across the country celebrated the achievements of women as we work towards achieving gender equality in our workplaces and our communities.
At Aurizon, we are building a culture where different perspectives and contributions are encouraged and valued; where people are connected and have a sense of belonging; and where we feel empowered to bring our whole self to work at Aurizon.
From a business perspective we know that an inclusive workplace, where there is gender balance and equality, drives better performance and outcomes for our customers, our shareholders and our communities.
Our female representation currently stands at 22%, and while this has improved in recent years, there is much more we need to do to increase the gender balance in our Company.
Chloe’s story
Chloe has had a passion for mechanics since quite a young age. Her interest was sparked by the notion that all components have a specific role to play in the appropriate operation of equipment, so understanding how these individual components work to operate the machine fascinated her.
Chloe’s search for an apprenticeship began at the age of 15. She had plenty of knock backs in the five years as she searched for a company to take her on in what she sees as a very male dominated industry. Chloe successfully applied for an apprentice position with Aurizon when she was 20 years old and is delighted that Aurizon recognised her capabilities for the role.
We asked Chloe what advice she would give to other women looking to embark in a trade apprenticeship with Aurizon. “My advice to other women embarking on gaining an apprenticeship in this industry is to persevere, have full acceptance of constructive criticism as it’s a tool that can help you continue your success and always ask questions. At Aurizon you are in a supportive environment with plenty of encouragement and opportunities to help you grow, so take the opportunity to learn as much as possible.”
When asked what she liked about Aurizon as an apprentice provider Chloe said: “Aurizon has been an excellent company to complete my apprenticeship with. The continued support of staff in the workplace environment has been incredible. Regardless of gender, I have been given the opportunity to learn and gain the required skills in my chosen trade with the full support and patience from my team and leaders.”
Eleesa’s story
We asked Eleesa why she chose to do an electrical trade apprenticeship. “I chose to do electrical because I was always good at mathematics and science but on top of that I also liked the idea of being hands on in a role. I also wanted to dive out of my comfort zone and learn a whole new range of skills.”
Eleesa says that embarking on an apprenticeship with Aurizon provided a variety of work and experiences.
“Aurizon has a very large range of options and expertise if you want to become an electrical tradesperson. I have had the opportunity to learn my trade working on locomotives but there are also opportunities to learn out on the tracks doing signalling and working on track machines.
“I would say that you make your own success. If you put the effort and hard yards in then there is no doubt that you will achieve and conquer. Show initiative, believe in yourself and push yourself forward then you will get everything out of the experience that you put in. You are only limited to the limits you create.
“Even though my work is it is at one location, the work tasks I encounter on a daily basis are completely different. It is very satisfying to have such a wide range of jobs to do every day. The people that I work with are fantastic and are always willing to give you a helping hand. They are like a second family and are so welcoming making you feel like you belong.”
Apprenticeship with Aurizon
If you’re interested in a career at Aurizon please express your interest by clicking on ‘Apply Now’ on the careers page of our website.