A Central Queensland coal operation employee has been elevated to a management position despite her initial hesitation.
BMA electrical contractor Karla was not actively looking for a promotion at the Saraji Coal Mine in Dysart, 231km southwest of Mackay.
However, the company’s invitation to apply for the Supervisor Development Program was too good to pass up, even though she was happy to stay in the same role.
Attractive offer
“I was hesitant at first because I was not sure if I was ready for this role as I am a hands-on person but I am convinced now that I have made the right decision,” she said in a public statement.
From an early age, Karla regularly pushed herself to perform better in her farm management responsibilities, and her sense of self-accomplishment brought happiness even though achieving her objectives sometimes required hard work.
“It is not about proving a point to anyone other than myself. I take pride in pushing my limits to see how far I can go,” she said.
“I am familiar with the operations and the culture of the work environment. Taking on a leadership role feels like a step in the right direction.”
Since she joined the program her knowledge of BMA has improved, and she understands why the business operates in a certain way.
“Being in this role has expanded my views and has helped me understand why certain processes are in place,” she said.
“I believe my experience and the connections I have made with my workmates will help me better relate and understand their point of view and in doing so, be a better leader.”
Guiding hand
To help guide her through the 18-month program, she received regular mentorship from her very own shadow leader.
“It is great to be learning from the best and I am appreciative that my workmates trust and respect me in a supervisory capacity,” Karla said.
She recommends anyone who is thinking about a career in mining to “have a go”.
“Do not hold back as we all need to start somewhere,” she said.
“The supervisor development program is the perfect platform to gain technical knowledge and operational skills, alongside the opportunities provided in building foundations to become an effective frontline people leader and, in working within the systems and processes of BMA.”
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