Alcoa launches 2021 apprentice recruitment campaign for Western Australia alumina refineries even amidst COVID-19 crisis

According to a recent report, Alcoa has come up with its 2021 recruitment campaign for apprentices despite the COVID-19 crisis and weak economy. The company says that it plans to recruit 24 apprentices, who will join 101 other apprentices in Western Australia alumina refineries in January 2021.

The apprenticeship programme is for four years, and upon completion the participants will earn a nationally recognised trade certificate in mechanical fitting, heavy duty plant mechanics, fabrication and welding or industrial electrical instrumentation.

Alcoa also says that it is offering industry competitive remuneration and benefits to the apprentices so that they are able to live close to operations located in the Peel region and Perth.

Alcoa human resources and employee relations director Matthew Gleeson said the company is committed to skill development for existing and future workers even in the face of COVID-19 pandemic.

“These might be uncertain times, but we have stable and efficient operations in Western Australia that will exist for decades to come and tradespeople are critical to our ongoing success,” Gleeson commented.

He also said that Alcoa is looking for apprentices with problem solving skills. Expertise in communication would be an added advantage, added Gleeson.

Sharing own experience, An Alcoa first-year mechanical fitter apprentice at the Kwinana alumina refinery, Neesh Truscott, said she was impressed by the refinery’s size, activity, and production process.

“You will not regret (applying for an apprenticeship) as Alcoa is a great company to work for and the apprenticeship will set you on a clear career path,” she said.

Applications for the 2021 Alcoa apprenticeship program are open until July 27.

Currently, Alcoa employs around 3750 people in Western Australia.