The two-year production technician traineeship, provided by Programmed Skilled Workforce, a specialist in staffing, facility management, and maintenance services, combines on-the-job training with classroom-based learning.

The trainees have earned formal qualifications in process plant operations and completed training in emergency response, high risk licensing, first aid and various safety courses.

INPEX’s Learning and Development Lead, Glenn Ross, highlights the exceptional outcomes achieved through the comprehensive traineeship program.

“Most often, we promote graduates to advance at INPEX as qualified production technicians, but the course is also a stepping stone to broader opportunities in the global energy industry,” Glenn says.
The five graduates in this year’s cohort come from diverse backgrounds and share a common sentiment – they are grateful to have begun their careers at INPEX through perseverance
and determination.

Baden Quill is the first Larrakia person to graduate from the program. While working in an operations support position at the Ichthys LNG onshore production facility with Larrakia Development Corporation, he applied for the traineeship, secured a position in 2023, and hasn’t looked back.

“My journey has been incredibly

rewarding, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside a talented team within a reputable company,” Baden says.

Another graduate, Jade McGowan found the opportunity equally rewarding and describes completing the traineeship as one of the biggest achievements
of her life.

Jade began her career as a boilermaker before transitioning to pipe fitting. When the opportunity arose to work at Ichthys LNG, she took the plunge to become a fly-in, fly-out pipe fitter.

With broad experience in hands-on roles within the oil and gas industry, Jade pursued the traineeship to fulfil her desire to move into a technical role.

Securing the opportunity two years ago, Jade acknowledges that her hard work has truly paid off.

“This experience has reinforced my belief

in resilience, hard work, and seizing every opportunity to learn and improve,” Jade says.
Beginning his career as a mechanical fitter, Dale Flanagan was accepted into the trainee program in 2023 and recounts his preparations for the interview as a key driver for his success.

“When I was preparing for the traineeship interview, I practiced aptitude tests online, researched potential interview questions, and studied the histories of both INPEX and Programmed Skilled Workforce,” Dale says.

Luke Schreurs’ passion for the energy sector sparked over a decade ago when he began working as an electrical and instrumentation apprentice.

In late 2020, Luke joined INPEX as an electrical subcontractor, where he became enamoured with the complex and dynamic operations of the facility. Luke pursued higher education and moved into a production trainee role.

“I’ve loved the opportunities I’ve had to grow, develop and collaborate with members of a diverse and highly skilled team.”

Tara Newnham transitioned from an administrative role to become an offtake coordinator at Ichthys LNG allowing her to expand her knowledge of production planning, facility operations, and global stakeholder engagement.

Recognising a gap in her technical knowledge, she applied successfully for the traineeship program in 2023.

“This qualification has given me a stronger technical foundation and reinforced my passion for the industry. I am grateful for the opportunities and support INPEX has given me over the last eight years in reshaping my career path.

“I hope my story can inspire others – with the right support, hard work and dedication, career changes are possible.”

All five trainees have demonstrated great determination, not only to secure a position in the program, but also through their perseverance in achieving their qualifications.

At INPEX, fostering a work environment where people thrive is a top priority, and the company supports opportunities for staff to develop and learn. TQ