Building what’s next

To help the workforce prepare for when BHP ceases mining at Mt Arthur Coal in 2030, BHP is reimbursing its workforce the course fees for any nationally recognised training course.

One teammate making the most of this opportunity is Technician Maintenance Plumber Brady.

Brady said when paid study was made available, he saw it as an opportunity to expand his skill set.

“I wanted to find something relevant to my trade that would allow me to not be on the tools as much,” Brady said.

“I thought a Bachelor of Construction was a good fit and even though it’s a bit of a stretch for me, I thought I’d challenge myself and have a crack,” he said.

“In this course I’m learning about the business side of construction, like how contracts work, the legal side, how to coordinate with trades and sequencing projects from start to finish.”

“It’s good to be learning different things and it has given me a new perspective on things I hadn’t thought about before.”

Brady studies online so he can view the lectures at a time that works with his shifts but said on his days off he pops into the lectures in person.

“I like to go in when I can because I probably learn better in person, and then I can’t procrastinate by doing a load of washing or something,” he laughs.

“As part of my course, I’ve also lined up some work experience with a Tier 1 builder, so I’ll start doing some of that on my days off as well,” he said.

“At the end of the degree, I’ll get my builders ticket and down the track I could start my own business, which is something I’d love to do one day.”