BHP partnership draws recruits

Six reservist specialist service officers (SSO) were appointed at Defence Force Recruiting Perth at the end of April through the BHP/Army Workforce Mobility Trial (WMT).

CAPTION: The six reservist specialist service officers were appointed at Defence Force Recruiting Perth through the BHP/Army Workforce Mobility Trial. Story by Jesse Spry.

Commander 13 Brigade Brigadier Brett Chaloner welcomed the SSOs into Army, while speaking of the success the program had brought to Army’s workforce.

“The relationship between the Army and BHP is the first of its type in Australia. This is a crucial day for you, and you will play an essential role in the Australian Army,” Brigadier Chaloner said.

The WMT bespoke training program fast-tracks recruitment by mapping specialist skillsets into an Army reservist position and creating a shared workforce model between the two organisations.

Alton Pratt, a geologist with BHP who joined Army through the program, described himself as a life-long student and said he was looking to grab every opportunity he could to develop a broad range of skills.

“I’ve always thought about joining Army,” Mr Pratt said.

“When we heard about the trial through BHP, I thought it was gold. I was looking for opportunities to challenge myself and grow my leadership skills – finding out my skills are transferrable to Army was perfect.”

The partnership has proven successful, with joint benefits for both organisations. There have been more than 180 expressions of interest from BHP employees since April 2021. The program has allowed 13 Brigade to grow its people capability in roles that have historically been difficult to recruit to.

The program provides industry partners with opportunities to benefit from their employees’ Army service.

“I’m excited to work with military personnel and learn from their broad experiences. I’m planning to have a long and fulfilling career in Army,” Mr Pratt said.

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