RCR Mining Technologies is moving to ensure it has a sustainable, future-ready workforce, breathing new life into its Internship Program as a strategic step to strengthen the company’s capability while deepening its connection to the communities in which it operates.
With RCR on a strong growth trajectory, the company is taking a proactive approach to workforce planning, developing emerging talent early to build the capability and succession pipeline the mining and resources sector will need in the years ahead.
RCR Head of Business Services Shane Royston said the initiative reflected both the company’s growth trajectory and its long-term talent strategy.
“The internship program allows us to build a pipeline of future team members who already understand our business, culture and expectations,” Mr Royston said.
“By investing in students early, we reduce future recruitment gaps, strengthen succession planning and ensure we’re developing capabilities that align with where the business is heading.
“It’s a proactive approach to workforce planning rather than a reactive one.”
The program’s development has been shaped by RCR’s involvement in the Bunbury Geographe Economic Alliance, which connects local businesses with emerging talent through initiatives such as the StudentConnect Portal.
It was through this platform that Edith Cowan University (ECU) first registered interest in RCR, leading to a formal partnership and the program’s first intake of interns.
“We’ve engaged with ECU because of their strong presence in both the local community and the broader region,” Mr Royston said.
“As the only university in the Bunbury region, they play a vital role in connecting education, industry and community, and this partnership lets us contribute meaningfully to that network.”
RCR’s first two interns under the revamped program have already made their mark.
Zaddy Bell, studying a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety, joined the HSE team and has been closely involved in reviewing procedures, supporting safety documentation and assisting with incident investigations.
Reflecting on her experience, Ms Bell said the internship had reinforced the importance of strong interpersonal skills in health and safety roles and had strengthened her interest in pursuing a career in the field.
“What I appreciate most about RCR is its strong focus on safety, teamwork and supporting employees,” Ms Bell said.
“It was a supportive environment that provided valuable learning opportunities and real industry experience.”
Md Shahrin Ridwan, studying a Bachelor of Engineering, joined RCR’s Engineering team in May and continues to gain hands-on exposure to real-world engineering practices within the business.
Mr Royston said the interns brought fresh thinking and challenged conventional approaches, while also providing practical, day-to-day support that helps keep key projects moving.
“Hosting interns reinforces a culture of learning, mentorship and knowledge-sharing,” he said.
“It encourages our people to step into coaching roles and actively contribute to developing others.”
Looking ahead, RCR intends to grow the program’s scale and impact by increasing intern opportunities planned for future intakes and expanding the program to include scholarships.
Mr Royston said long-term success would see interns transition into graduate or permanent roles, contributing to a strong internal talent pipeline.
“We see success as becoming a recognised employer of choice for students in the region and contributing meaningfully to local workforce development,” he said.
For students considering a mining industry internship in Western Australia, RCR’s growing partnership with ECU offers a structured pathway from study into a genuine industry career.
