Beacon shines light on local job opportunities with Bell Bay Aluminium

Beacon Foundation is partnering with Bell Bay Aluminium to inspire students and create a job-ready generation of Tasmanians.

A new $100,000 three year partnership between the two organisations is set to help students in Years 9-12 become aware of opportunities for operational, trades, engineering, technical and leadership careers within the advanced manufacturing sector.

Students from Port Dalrymple School and Scottsdale High School recently visited Bell Bay Aluminium to participate in Beacon Growth Industry Preparation Programs, which included a site tour, conversations with Bell Bay Aluminium mentors, an overview of Bell Bay Aluminium and the industry as well as practical job preparation. These same students also participated in a full day work-readiness ‘Polish’ program at their schools, with Bell Bay Aluminium mentors attending.

Beacon CEO Scott Harris said the program contained a series of activities to help build career-ready skills and career awareness among students.

“We’re delighted to partner with Bell Bay Aluminium to help unlock opportunities for young Tasmanians to not only enter the workforce, but find fulfilling careers,” Mr Harris said.

“There are so many career opportunities out there for young Tasmanians, and often all it needs is an introduction to a particular industry or business to set someone on a rewarding pathway.

“The sessions combine Beacon’s professional facilitators with the experience of Bell Bay Aluminium mentors to help young people understand what jobs are in their community and how to find a job they enjoy and a career they will love.

“Students experience first-hand what it’s like to work in the many varied roles on offer at Bell Bay Aluminium and hopefully find something that piques their interest and helps build networks, confidence and opportunities for the future.

“This partnership is just one example of the many Industry-focused programs that Beacon deliver across the state.  Beacon’s work is focused on collaborating with businesses to run these programs that get Tasmanian students thinking about a career after they finish school, and give them the tools to make it a reality.”

Bell Bay Aluminium Acting General Manager, Mark Gerrard said, “It’s important that we invest in young people and their opportunities for career development. This partnership makes it easier for local students to access people in operational, trades and professional careers at the smelter and will ensure we play a role in preparing Tasmania’s young people for the future.

“The partnership also complements our schools-based apprenticeship program launched earlier this year and will give students multiple opportunities to engage with our industry.

“There are so many varied and rewarding careers available in the advanced manufacturing sector. We’re excited to be able to work with students who show a genuine interest in learning more about careers and opportunities in the aluminium industry.”

Mr Harris said if other businesses would like to get involved they can reach out to Beacon at www.beaconfoundation.org.au