Based at CSI Mining Services’ Hazelmere workshop, Mikayla is plying her trade in an environment defined by innovation, collaboration and hands-on learning.
Her journey into the industry began while she was still at school, when she completed a Certificate II in Fabrication through Rockingham TAFE as part of a Vocational Education and Training program during Years 11 and 12.
The training saw her spend one day a week at TAFE and one day a week on work placement at an engineering company in Bibra Lake, providing an early introduction to the challenges and opportunities of trade life.
Those opportunities helped shape the direction of her career and led her to Mineral Resources (MinRes), where the mix of workshop-based and site-based training appealed to Mikayla.
“I always strived to be a tradesperson – at first I was thinking of being a diesel mechanic,” Mikayla explained.
“While I was completing my Certificate II at TAFE, I was fortunate enough to have my lecturer give me a brochure for the next apprentice intake for MinRes.”
“I was applying for many jobs at the time and saw the benefit of some of my apprenticeship being completed on site.”
That decision has since led her to the Hazelmere workshop, where she’s developing her skills as part of a high-performing team supporting the design, manufacture, repair and refurbishment of mobile mining equipment attachments.
Since being incorporated into the business in 2023 following MinRes' acquisition of G&G Mining, the Hazelmere workshop has continued to drive innovation across the maintenance and new build of mining equipment components.
Working in collaboration with CSI’s Kwinana workshop, the Hazelmere facility delivers market-leading solutions for MinRes and select external tier one clients. The facility is a recognised leader in repairs, refurbishment and new builds of buckets, booms, sticks, dump truck trays and water carts.
For Mikayla, being part of this environment has created daily opportunities to learn, contribute and grow.
“My duties consist of a daily pre-start meeting, daily workshop inspections, gas quantity checklists and I assist throughout the workshop with the tradespeople each day,” Mikayla said.
“I’m currently designing and fabricating my own toolbox trolley for site and have assisted with the mark-out of new parts and build of a Komatsu WA900 wheel loader bucket.”
Mikayla is also enjoying the chance to learn from people around her and see a job progress from start to finish in a workshop with a team-first mentality.
“I like learning the different perspectives of different tradespeople,” she said.
“I enjoy watching the process of the builds from flat plate to finished products.”
“I’ve always been made welcome by everyone in the business – from head office to the Training Centre to the Hazelmere workshop.”
“I’ve recently been lucky enough to complete my forklift high risk training and I found everyone to be approachable and happy to answer my questions.”
“This apprenticeship has given me a lot more confidence to obtain the skill set required for this trade and also helped improve my time management skills.”
That combination of practical training, personal growth and strong team support is helping lay the foundations for Mikayla to have a lasting career in the resources industry.
As the Hazelmere workshop continues playing a vital role in supporting MinRes and external clients with innovative, high-quality solutions, apprentices like Mikayla are an important part of its future.
Learn more about the Hazelmere workshop.
