Fortescue Metals : family values the key to VTEC’s success

Having successfully completed the company's VTEC program, the 20 graduates have secured employment as operators across Fortescue's Pilbara mine sites, where they will have the support and opportunity to progress their skills.

Fortescue Chief Executive Officer, Nev Power, said Fortescue's family values shine through at the company's VTEC graduations.

"Every VTEC class is like a family. I am always inspired by the close bonds our trainees form as they work together and support each other towards a stronger future for themselves and their communities. Their graduation is a testament to their hard work and determination and the commitment their families make to embrace this opportunity," Mr Power said.

South Hedland VTEC graduate, Rowan Whitby, returned to work having been a stay at home dad for three years, raising his three children. Having secured a job at Fortescue's Cloudbreak mine, Rowan's goal is to stay employed and never look back.

"I hope to buy a house for my family to call home," he said.

Antoinette Tom, a fellow South Hedland graduate, says the support of the VTEC program brought her out of her shell and gave her confidence. She hopes to use this opportunity to be a good role model: "I want to show other women that there are great opportunities for women in mining."

On site the graduates will continue to receive professional and personal support from Fortescue's Aboriginal Development Coordinators.

"The support does not stop once you get a job. Our Aboriginal Development Coordinators are dedicated to supporting our VTEC graduates every step of the way to ensure the transition into the workforce is as smooth as possible for the trainees and their families. Their success is our success," Mr Power said.

Photos available on request.

Jasmin Sleeman

ABN 57 002 594 872 East Perth, Western Australia

Level 2, 87 Adelaide Terrace P +61 8 6218 8888 East Perth, Western Australia 6004 E fmgl@fmgl.com.au