The METRONET WA Railcar Program family has grown with three new apprentices joining the team following completion of the ALSTOM Aboriginal 10-week pre-employment program earlier this year.

Apprentices Leon Walley, Bradley Moore and Jesse Dingo were selected from 14 participants and have hit the ground running in their three-year apprenticeships, trying their hand at all things railcar on the workshop floor while also undertaking a four-year Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Fitting at TAFE.

Developed in collaboration with ALSTOM, the METRONET Gnarla Biddi team and North Metropolitan TAFE, the Aboriginal pre-employment program aims to connect young Aboriginal people to training and employment opportunities.

For the apprentices, it’s not only an opportunity for skill and career development but also a chance to connect with community as role models for other young people looking for employment in the rail industry.

“I previously worked in retail, but this opportunity was hard to pass up as it appealed to my interest in mechanics and machinery,” Leon explained.

Bradley, who also has a keen interest in mechanics, is excited about the practical components of the course and continuing his family’s connection to the rail industry.

“I’m really looking forward to putting my learned skills into practice and I’m proud to be building the new C-series as both my mum and dad worked on the railway in Busselton,” Bradley explained.

Family pride is also key for Jesse who is excited to continue his apprenticeship to make his mum proud.