Princely graduation of Glencore pathways program

Nine participants of Glencore’s 2023 New South Wales Indigenous Pathways Program (IEPP) have graduated and secured full-time work in the Hunter region, NSW, with ambassador and former NRL premiership winning half Scott Prince praising their stellar efforts.

The 26-week program, run yearly, provides work readiness and training opportunities for Indigenous Australians who live on, or have connection to, the areas in which Glencore Coal operates in the region.

Glencore Indigenous programs coordinator Carrie Bendeich says the graduates have gained essential job skills and developed a strong foundation for their future careers in the industry.

“This program is designed to create opportunities and inspire Indigenous Australians to reach their career goals,” she said.

“The graduation ceremony marks a significant milestone for our graduates, who are now job-ready and poised for career success.”

IEPP ambassador and participant mentor as well as former NRL premiership winning half Scott Prince provides guidance and acting as a sounding board for those involved.

“Mining can provide for the community and as these participants have discovered, help establish themselves with a career so they can provide for their own families,” he said.

“To see how much they’ve all grown in confidence over the 26-weeks is remarkable.

“They weren’t overwrought by the challenges they faced, and they supported each other along the way.”

The IEPP is divided into two stages: training and job readiness.

These stages include inductions, medicals, life-skills, leadership training and on-site work experience, offering career opportunities in a range of roles, from operators to warehouse assistants, trades assistants and bench support.

IEEP graduate Brianna Duncan says the program has strengthened her confidence and communication skills.

“There’s been a lot of support from everyone I was in the classroom with,” she said.

“My confidence has grown more than I could ever have imagined and now I’ve secured a full-time role.”

Another IEEP graduate, Adam Gould, says the program has changed his life by helping him to secure full-time employment.

“I joined the program for a better start in life – for my family and my children,” he said.

“I knew nothing about mining before I got here, now I know safety, teamwork and how to drive a truck.

“There’s no better job in the world.”

NSW IEPP coordinator Nat Conroy says she is incredibly proud of this year’s cohort.

“This isn’t just about a job, it’s a career path – this is life-changing,” she said.

“I’m so proud of the efforts of our 2023 team and I can’t wait to see their achievements in future.”