Empowering futures through the MASITE Program

Our Mt Arthur South Inclusive Trainee Employment (MASITE) Program was launched in March 2021, focused on creating employment pathways for women and Indigenous people from the local community.

Over a 12-month traineeship, MASITE participants follow a comprehensive curriculum to gain production operator skills. They experience a mix of theoretical and practical training, allowing trainees to embrace and learn the importance of safety, operational excellence and technical proficiency. Participants are mentored by industry leaders and supported by their peers, while being provided with a nurturing and inclusive environment to learn and develop new skills.

MASITE graduate, Isabella Ford describes her experience in the program: “The MASITE Program has allowed me to gain so many new skills and has me set on the right path for progressing in my career. I feel incredibly excited about my future. The possibilities at Thiess are endless and I’m grateful to be a part of it”.

Since its inception, 92% of trainees have successfully completed the program and transitioned into permanent roles with us. It has also resulted in Mt Arthur South’s Indigenous representation increasing from 2.0% in 2021 to 11.8% in 2024 and female participation increasing from 18.9% in 2021 to 23.1% in 2024. The program is intended to leave a positive legacy through the training and skills provided, beyond the closure of BHP’s Mt Arthur Mine site in 2030.

The success of the MASITE Program was recently recognised when it was announced as the winner of the state (NSW Mining) and national (Minerals Council Australia) 2024 Women in Mining and Resources Awards in the Diversity & Inclusion Program category