Work Experience in the Pilbara: Fenner Conveyors Breaking Barriers for Women in Mining
At Fenner Conveyors, we believe in providing opportunities for everyone, including young women eager to break into the traditionally male-dominated mining industry. Recently, we had the privilege of hosting two inspiring students for a work experience tour, where they got to see firsthand what it’s like to be part of our field-based Conveyor Service team.
Mielleii, a Year 12 student graduating in 2024, was unsure of her career path when she first heard about the opportunity. Organised by the Stars Foundation and Regional Manager, Ryan Giltinan, Mielleii jumped at the chance to visit mining sites across the Coastal Pilbara and learn about the role of a belt splicer.
“I was really keen to see what a belt splicer was and what a day in the life of that job looked like,” Mielleii shared.
Arriving on-site, Mielleii's first impression was the summer heat, but she was impressed by how organised and helpful the Fenner Conveyors team was. Despite the challenges, she noticed how manual the job was and observed the predominantly male workforce.
Mielleii left the site with a clearer idea of what she wanted to do next, and has since been accepted into an apprenticeship as a Mechanical Fitter.
“It’s been a great learning experience, and it helped me figure out my career direction,” Mielleii said.
Paige Jaques, also in Year 12, had a similar experience.
“I knew I wanted to work with my hands and do something outdoors but wasn’t sure what role would fit that brief,” Paige explained. After joining the tour, she was keen to see how Fenner Conveyors could offer insight into the industry.
Like Mielleii, Paige quickly realised that Australian mining sites are hot, dusty, and hard work. But what stood out most was the male-dominated workforce. “There are a lot of males and not many females on-site,” she said, acknowledging the gender gap but also feeling motivated by the challenge.
Mielleii and Paige were introduced to one of Fenner Conveyors’ female belt splicers, Kieara, who works across Port sites across Karratha. Kieara shared with the girls some of the most rewarding aspects of her role since she joined Fenner Conveyors back in 2017 through its RTO mechanical traineeship program.
“At Fenner Conveyors, we’re committed to changing the narrative around women in mining. The industry needs fresh, diverse talent, and we’re proud to support the next generation of skilled workers, whether they’re splicing belts, fitting machinery, or taking on roles in all areas of mining,” said Giltinan.
