The South West is about to get a taste of Fortescue’s award-winning Vocational Training and Employment Centre (VTEC) program with the initiative expanding its footprint to Busselton.

The South West is about to get a taste of Fortescue’s award-winning Vocational Training and Employment Centre (VTEC) program with the initiative expanding its footprint to Busselton.

Established in 2007, Fortescue’s VTEC program provides sustainable career pathways for First Nations people, forming a key part of Fortescue’s training and development strategy. The program is delivered throughout Western Australia in Perth, Broome, Karratha, Port Hedland and now Busselton.

Ahead of participants heading to Fortescue’s Pilbara operations to continue their learning, Iszaac Webb from the Undalup Association took leaders on an On Country Experience, and Josh Whiteland from Koomal Dreaming led a cultural immersion experience, showcasing Busselton’s rich First Nations history and culture.

Chantelle Carroll, a proud Koori Wiradjuri woman born and raised on Noongar Boodja, and Lucas Bennell, a proud Ballardong-Whadjuk Nyungar Maarman man with strong ancestral ties to Wardandi Country, are part of the inaugural cohort comprising 13 participants.

Chantelle said: “I grew up in the South West so I’m looking forward to the opportunity to spend time in the Pilbara learning and growing with this program.

“I’m super excited to step outside of my comfort zone, try something new and continue to learn. I’m grateful to Fortescue for providing this opportunity to us in the South West and I am looking forward to seeing what other opportunities this might offer me.”

Lucas said: “I’m Bunbury born and raised but it’s been a dream of mine to do fly-In-fly-out and experience the Pilbara.

“I’m excited to experience the local Pilbara culture and wake up to the gorgeous landscapes. This opportunity has not only opened the door for me but for my First Nations brothers and sisters to apply and take on a journey for a successful future.”

Fortescue Metals Chief Executive Officer, Dino Otranto, said: “Fortescue is a leader in its commitment to providing opportunities for First Nations people and the success of the VTEC program is proven by the more than 1,500 First Nations people who have been offered employment since VTEC began.

“I’m pleased to see the program expanding into the South West and I thank the local community for their overwhelming support for the program.”