"Oh I love it, I wake up every day with a smile! There are plenty of challenges and that’s why I like it so much.”

Clint Alec joined Cliffs Underground Nickel Mine in Western Australia about 12 months ago as part of the Tjiwarl Work Ready Program. He started out as a nipper (an entry level role in a hard rock underground mining environment), and has since moved into a service crew role.

“I love working with all different kinds of people from different backgrounds and cultures,” said Clint.

“It’s good to be able to support my family and at the same time I am doing something I love.”

Clint’s superintendent Roberto Kilian said the team enjoys Clint’s positive, charismatic attitude and his step-up leadership skills, mentoring younger members of the Tjiwarl community through the Work Ready Program.  

“Clinton is really developing his skills in the underground mining industry. He has impressed our team from the beginning. He is happy to be part of BHP and always open to learn from others. We see a lot of potential in Clint and we’re proud to have him on board!”

We asked Clint where he sees himself in 10 years’ time.

“I would like to be on the jumbo or even a shift supervisor,” was Clint’s response.

Clint has recently graduated from BHP’s Indigenous Development Program, having been flagged as a future leader in the business.

Through the 2020 Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), BHP has been working to increase Indigenous representation and create a more inclusive workplace.

BHP’s Indigenous Development Program (IDP) was launched in in 2015 and has since been rolled out across Australia.