Ready for Work

Sixteen individuals are now ready to commence full-time employment with Bechtel on Pluto Train 2 site as Trade Assistants, roles vary for these dedicated participants in various disciplines; electrical, mechanical, warehousing and concreting to name a few.   The latest round of the program commenced in February 2024 with aims to build employable skills and industry experience. Participants complete Construction White Card, First Aid and site inductions certifications.

Bechtel offered job shadow placements of participants choice which provided invaluable insights into the industry, helping make informed decisions about their futures. Gaining on the job experience with also built work/life balance skills to prepare the graduates for full-time employment.

Pre-employment medicals and mock interviews assisted in preparation for final interviews, ending with a celebratory BBQ at Red Dog Village. 

A large part of this program's success is the comradery and culture that has grown with the group, as their skills have grown, so have integral, supportive relationships. 

Woodside will continue to provide wrap-around support to these motivated individuals, identifying long-term and sustainable training and development opportunities such as apprenticeships, traineeships or roles within operations and projects. 

Pluto Train 2 Project Manager, Tom Feutrill said it is more than a work ready program, creating pathways into fulfilling careers and building capability in our community. 

“Woodside’s involvement in the program is aimed at establishing employment opportunities and providing successful and meaningful careers, while developing critical life skills and confidence.” 

Many entered the program not quite ready for employment. Some had taken a break from work while others had never had a job before. The process of applying for construction roles was initially seen as a challenge, many not knowing where to begin. 

“The Work Ready program is about giving Traditional Custodians an opportunity to work on a construction site, removing barriers to enter the industry. Those involved can be proud of the success of this program, it is testament to a collaborative approach and each participant's hard work, dedication and commitment.” said, Pluto Train 2 Project Manager, Tom Feutrill.

Bechtel Site Manager, Terry Klowss said, “The Work Ready Program has been a valuable asset to Bechtel’s workforce, enriching our team while simultaneously providing the graduates with invaluable exposure to the construction industry.

“We are immensely proud to support this initiative for a second year, as it has opened up diverse employment opportunities across Bechtel’s construction disciplines, allowing participants to explore their interests and gain firsthand work experience with our company. This not only fosters their professional growth, but also cultivates a strong sense of belonging, which is one of our core values.”

This work ready program has helped to break down barriers to employment for Traditional Custodians, supporting them through culturally appropriate mentoring and guidance, to address their home governance, develop important life skills, improve their health/wellbeing, develop pride and confidence, and build cultural respect and social connectedness.   

This program is part of the vision of Uncle David Walker, NBAC Chairperson, who wants “to help our people move away from sit-down money, so our future generations have a better chance, and we can provide our families with a better life. For this to happen, our people need education and training. Station life is no more, we will only achieve supervisory, managerial, and even apprenticeships through education and hard work. I want to see and be a part of this change. If we can see this, we will see our people have safe, stable housing, employment and better health and wellbeing; we will see them committed to their individual self-determination.” 

Working with an experienced construction contractor such as Bechtel provides a unique opportunity to be involved in a project that supports meeting the growing demand for the low-cost, lower carbon, reliable energy the world needs today and into the future. 

The development of the Scarborough Energy Project will provide a boost to the WA economy and communities, growing jobs and bringing work through the supply chain. The project will also support investment in education, training and jobs. 

Find out more about the Scarborough Energy Project here: https://www.woodside.com/what-we-do/growth-projects/Scarborough-Energy-Project