Amanda Hamilton (Manager of the Resources Industry Training Council of WA) attended the Australian Drilling Industry Association (ADIA) DRILL 2022 conference and exhibition in Adelaide from May 17-19.
This was the first time the ADIA members have met together since 2019 and there was a great mix of drilling companies, equipment manufacturers, mining companies, training providers exhibiting and some excellent talks about the future of the drilling industry. Of note were how advances in technology, automation and data are transforming the industry. This year’s exhibition was themed “Gearing for Growth” which was fitting given Amanda was invited by ADIA to give a talk on the supply and demand of skills and labour in WA over the last 12 months and how it has impacted the drilling industry, and what initiatives government and industry have been working on as a solution.
In collaboration with the Australian Drilling Industry Association (ADIA), The Department of Training and Workforce Development, The Resources Industry Training Council Western Australia and the Australian Training Management Pty Ltd RTO , the first round of the Driller’s Offsider Employability Program was completed on 19 May.
Eight pre-screened participants completed the course with certifications in first aid, CPR, working at heights and 4WD, as well as a day’s induction into working FIFO and the life of an offsider.
All participants who completed the program were connected to drilling companies and given an opportunity to interview for a position as drilling offsider. The RITC is keen to follow the progress of the participants to see where they end up!
A special big shout out to Peter Hall and Tim Westcott from ADIA for their support and championing this program.
DTWD is now pre-screening the next cohort of participants to run a follow up program in June. For more information about the program and how to apply click on this link: https://lnkd.in/gyQ3AM-8
More about the Driller’s Offsider Employability Program
Did you know that there are currently 2000 Driller Offsider Vacancies?
Participants so far in the Driller’s Offsider Employability Program have expressed their keenness to get working and start a career.
One participant, Shane, said: “I am very keen to get out and work. Although it was great getting the theory side of the role, I am looking forward to getting the practical experience under my belt,”
“The program was at the perfect pace, the way it was structured, and the content has been great, I particularly liked the 4WD training” – Callum
“The government needs to do more of these programs to help with the ongoing skill shortages” – Steve
The final day of the program was an induction into FIFO work, working in the drilling industry and what a day in the life of a Driller Offsider looked like. The facilitator for the day was John McAvan who has more than 20 years’ experience in drilling and facilitated training programs for the Australian Drilling Industry Association. John was able to draw on his experience, giving participants a great insight into the occupation of Driller Offsider, including oversea opportunities.
Contact: Amanda Hamilton, Manager – Resources Industry Training Council (WA)
Email: a.hamilton@cmewa.com
