A unique training program initiated by Charles Darwin University and ConocoPhillips has brought 11 Timorese engineers to the Top End for training aimed at furthering their careers.
CDU’s Mining, Engineering and Fabrication team were approached by ConocoPhillips in mid-January for initial discussions and planning.
Program Manager, Mining, Engineering and Fabrication, David Cook said that after working to a tight deadline, a comprehensive training plan and structure was finally decided upon.
“The main focus is to provide these students with hands-on training which can be applied in potential future roles as trainee process operators working on live processing plants,” he said.
The training program, which also includes numeracy and literacy support, has been divided into two parts with the first to be completed on Friday, 2 May.
Students will then take a two-week break back home before returning to Darwin for the final five weeks of the program.
“The group is displaying excellent skills at this stage and we have therefore added two extra competencies in order to recognise the group’s rapid progress,” Mr Cook said.
“The plan is to be able to present the students with a Statement of Attainment during the last few days of the program and provide a small function to reward their hard work.”
The Timorese students will have the chance to complete a Certificate II in Engineering as another program outcome.