Glencore Coal helps over 30 Indigenous apprentices find work after Pathways program
Ben Horton-Hegarty shed his bad habits of junk food and beer with the help of the crib room. Now he’s encouraging more people to follow his path.
Mackay
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Life on a mine site is challenging, with 12.5 hour days and distance from family.
But for 2021 Glencore Pathways Indigenous Program graduate and Canberra export Ben Horton-Hegarty, the transition not only helped him get fitter, but also get his dream job.
“When I started, I was 110kg. My bad habits were junk food and beer,” the 29 year old said.
“At the end, I was 95kg. Living onsite, everything is cooked and … there’s good variety.
“You also have to be mentally prepared. The bonds I made through the program helped.
“If you’re struggling, Glencore will help.”
Mr Horton-Hegarty was among 14 to complete the 26-week program, which is in its third year.
After finishing work experience at Hail Creek mine, he received a Glencore Coal 2022 Apprenticeship for diesel fitting.
“It’s fantastic. I cried when my superintendent told me,” he said.
The program has two phases; the first providing back-to-work skills, mine site compliance safety training and life skills, and the second providing training and paid work experience to make participants job ready.
NRL legend Scott Prince was also involved as a mentor.
“I encourage First Nations or Indigenous people to apply – it’s life-changing,” Mr Horton-Hegarty said.
“If you’re willing to make the change and work hard, absolutely go for it.
“This (well-tailored) program gives you a broad range of skills in the first 10 weeks.
“You get your Standard 11, inductions, and work experience. You go to sites and find the job you want, whether that’s an operator, diesel fitter or shot-firer, and you get the skills and tickets you need to do those jobs.”
The program is based in two hubs, Glenden and Tieri, close to Glencore sites.
Since the program began, 49 participants have graduated and 31 are employed by Glencore, other mines, or external businesses.
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