Leanne is an Occupational Hygienist at Alcoa’s Huntly and Willowdale bauxite mines.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy working with people and the flexibility that my job gives, being able to work within the mining industry but still be able to be home at night time is a great thing about working for Alcoa.
Describe your career path to your current job?
I studied a Bachelor in Health Science and during my final years of study started working as an Occupational Hygiene Technician. This role lead me to work as Safety Graduate and further my studies in Hygiene so I could become a Hygienist.
What attracted you to a career in mining and resources?
After working in heavy industry as a Hygiene Technician, I really enjoyed the work and the balance of working and helping people so we can keep them safe from work place health risks.
If you have children, how do you juggle working in mining and resources with family life?
I have 2 children that are school age and still need to be dropped off and picked up. Work is flexible with my start and finish time which allows me to do some of the school drop offs and pickups.
What do you think of the general perception that mining and resources is a male-dominated sector?
I love the fact that when I turn up to school pick up in my HiVis it helps create a discussion that mining is not just for men and so many people from all backgrounds can be valuable contributors to the industry.
What advice would you give to other women considering a career in the sector?
Definitely go for it, it great to have diversity within the industry.
What’s the biggest thing you would like other women to know about working in mining and resources?
There are many women in the industry and we are all make valuable contributions to the industry.
What initiatives/policies has your employer put in place to encourage more women to be involved in the sector? Alcoa’s maternity leave support and return to work policy are great, I have been able to have a long break with both my children and returned to the role part-time. Alcoa are also flexible with work life balance which means I can enjoy work and family time.
