Melbourne Water Pathways Program participants
energy that these people brought to the workplace was more than I expected . We ended up with some very capable and competent engineers that before this were unable to get an opportunity in the workplace ”. Kelly adds : “ We ’ ve just kicked off our first cohort of eight Pathways participants . Some of them had been applying for jobs as civil engineers , for over three years , and never got to interview . The fact they were still applying shows a great level of resilience and tenacity . The energy and passion they now bring into the business is just incredible .”
Another progressive social procurement initiative is focused on lifting the level of indigenous participation within the construction industry . “ Due to the pressures of recent history we just don ’ t see enough indigenous workers in the mainstream workforce ,” notes Kelly . “ We ’ re trying to promote new pathways by supporting AquaMetro Services with the creation of a 100 % indigenous subcontractor . We will assist with schooling and training to enhance their capabilities so they can start their own business and operate as an independent contractor . This will provide a safer , more trusting environment to bring young indigenous graduates through the system , and – as part of our long-term initiative – hopefully put them through college to give them a future in their chosen discipline within the construction industry , whether that ’ s civil , electrical or mechanical .”
AquaMetro ’ s Director , Marcus Wade believes that every organisation , regardless of scope , has the power to make a difference to the world around it . “ Social responsibility is integrated into our business model ,” he says . “ To us it means fulfilling our duties and responsibility towards society especially the Traditional Owners Of the Country
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