The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) says despite repeated warnings of skills shortages in the resources sector, geology, mining engineering and metallurgy students are struggling to pick up vacation work in the industry.
Students in minerals-related disciplines are required to complete at lead 12 weeks of vacation work to receive their degrees, AusIMM chairman Chris Davis said.
But some students will not receive their degrees until months after they have completed their course work, because the jobs are not there, according to Mr Davis.
Mr Davis estimated there were more than 200 local and overseas students based in Perth who need vacation work.
“Mining graduates are a readily available workforce for mining companies,” he said.
“All these students want is to have a go on a minesite over the summer holidays, learn something about the industry, get a bit more passionate about their profession, and help their company with some sweat while earning a few bucks.”
“According to the Department of Mines and Petroleum there were over 200 active mining operations (excluding all oil & gas) in Western Australia with more than 85,000 staff on these sites.
“Surely our industry can find short term work, to train 200 future mining industry professionals.
The Institute is hosting an information evening on October 21, to facilitate links between mining company representatives and vacation work-ready students.