Just as METRONET is connecting people across Perth with 72 km of new rail and 23 new stations, traineeships on METRONET projects are helping connect Aboriginal peoples to exciting job opportunities.
One individual who has made the most of these connections is Yawuru/Jabirr Jabirr woman, Saemah Wade, who completed a 12-month business administration traineeship on the METRONET Byford Rail Extension Project in December 2024.
Saemah balanced hands-on work experience as a trainee administrator while studying a Certificate III in Business Administration and went on to secure a role as Project Administrator. Her experience built her professional skills and boosted her confidence as she re-entered the workforce.
"Completing my traineeship feels like a huge achievement and I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished," she said.
Saemah’s dedication to her training and career was recognised with a 2024 Nudge Leadership Award, which celebrates the contributions of young people to the Western Australian business community.
Saemah Wade - traineeship graduate and 2024 Nudge Leadership Award recipient
Saemah is not alone in her success. Four other employees on the Byford Rail Extension Project recently graduated from an all-female civil construction traineeship and now proudly hold a Certificate III in Civil Construction – Plant Operations and continue to work on the project.
One graduate commented that she was supported throughout her traineeship, learned about plant machines and working on site and hoped to one day use her qualifications and experience to further her career.
METRONET Byford Rail Extension Project Aboriginal Participation Advisor Maisie Barrett praised the five graduates and their determination, resilience and support of each other while juggling training requirements, work and personal commitments
“It has been a pleasure and privilege to watch their progress and dedication and their achievements reflect hard work and the commitment required to create a better future for themselves, their families and communities,” Maisie said.
Traineeships being delivered across METRONET projects support the METRONET Gnarla Biddi Aboriginal Engagement Strategy and a long-term commitment to present opportunities for Noongar and other Aboriginal peoples for direct employment and career development.