At the end of last year seven Biloela State High School students got a real-life taste of the mining industry when they completed one week's work experience at Callide mine.
During their time on site, the students were placed in different departments where they shadowed various disciplines to get an idea of the different careers they may wish to pursue in the future.
Callide training officer Rebecca Job coordinated the visit and said it was a valuable opportunity for the students to actively learn about people at work and roles they fill, while getting a better understanding of the types of work they perform.
"We are passionate about providing career opportunities for the local community and inspiring local students to pursue further study or training so they can reach their true potential," Rebecca said.
"By allowing students to participate in this program we hope it gives them some guidance for their future career path and choices."
Rebecca said students were placed in departments that matched their specific interests.
"For example, Breeanna Scott was placed in the HR team, where she assisted the training team with filing and issuing training documentation. She observed a training meeting, assisted with induction documentation and observed the testing process at the Apprentice Assessment Centre," Rebecca said.
"Michael McLure was placed with the Technical Services Department engineers where he participated in drill and blast data recording, observed how a tie-up for a main pass blast was designed and was taken through a blast clearance plan. He also observed dragline engineers where he looked at mine design documentation and pit plans.
"Emma Lutter is interested in completing an apprenticeship when she finishes school, so as part of her work experience she worked with the fitters, where she observed maintenance work on a grader and dozer repairs.
"The key thing for us was to ensure we designed a program that provided all students with a meaningful experience.
"All students agreed the most important learning from their experience at Callide was the emphasis on safety and the importance of looking out for your work mates to ensure everyone goes home to their family safe and sound," Rebecca said.
"We wish the students well with their future studies. We might even see them again down the track as potential employees at Callide."
ENDS