Interview Prep Flashcards
Could you tell me a little bit about yourself and your relevant experience?
My name is Trinah, I was born in the Cook Islands but grew up in Auckland, New Zealand. I moved to Perth at the end of 2023 for better work opportunities and overall change in my life.
A lot of my professional life has been spent predominantly working in customer facing roles both in Retail and Hospitality. As well as experience working Stockroom/Logistics and compliance type work.
Professionally what is your relevant customer service experience?
I’ve worked in one of the biggest retail stores in New Zealand and as a customer service representative - I was able to develop a lot of life skills I would say. I’ve developed strong communication and problem-solving skills, I’ve had experience leading teams in a management role, I’m comfortable working independently and as part of a team which enables me to work effectively with people at all levels.
In that management role in particular, I was responsible for managing inventory, meeting deadlines, and ensuring seamless store operations throughout the different departments taking pride in that attention to detail, the organisational skills required to be proficient in my role, as well as my commitment to excellence as a whole.
Since moving to Perth what is your relevant work experience?
Since moving to Perth, I have had the opportunity to work on a 3/1 roster with GR Engineering Services as a Trades Assistant which has been an enjoyable experience. I think initially the FIFO lifestyle was a bit of an adjustment but I found routine definitely plays an important role in that adjustment period and I do enjoy the structure of working FIFO.
Professionally what is your relevant FIFO experience?
As a FIFO trade assistant, I’ve developed a strong foundation of practical skills on a construction site, I now have a greater awareness of safety protocols and procedures, hands-on experience with different tools, equipment and machinery. Ive been able to demonstrate resilience in challenging environments, as well as being able to utilise the life skills learnt in maintaining a strong sense of teamwork, communication, and initiative in the workplace.
Outside of work, what is important to you?
Outside of work, I prioritise staying active and healthy. I enjoy the gym and find it has helped develop a heightened sense of accountability. I’m very committed to my fitness goals and often track my progress in the gym as well as my macros in what I eat. I pride myself on the self-discipline I’ve been able to build over time and I think in staying motivated and building mental toughness has helped to be able to overcome the inevitable mental and physical challenges that we face in life.
Spending quality time with my friends and family has always been an energy recharge for me and since moving to Perth from New Zealand it has been a big priority of mine to make time for those around me, to make a conscious effort into maintaining the friendships and relationships in my life.
I’m confident that these transferable skills and experiences can be applied to a drill and blast environment and would make me a strong candidate for this traineeship.
What motivated you to apply for an opportunity with BHP?
Yes, so this is actually my second engagement centre and one of the pointers that was given to me was to re-evaluate my motivations behind applying and I personally think it took a lot of introspection in the last year or so to really evaluate why I have applied for this opportunity and kinda what I am looking to accomplish really.
I understand BHP is a leading global resources company that prioritises safety, integrity, respect, performance and sustainability and I’m personally drawn to these values as I believe they closely align with my own. They align with the person I aim to be. They are all qualities I strive to emanate myself. This makes me excited for the opportunity to contribute to a company that shares my values.
I think a traineeship with BHP working in and amongst experienced professionals who are willing to provide support and guidance is a good way to learn new skills and gain confidence within a new role in a stable industry.
Could you elaborate on what else motivated you to apply for this opportunity?
Theres a growing demand in the mining and construction industries creating a need for skilled drill and blast professionals and I understand this traineeship can lead to a stable, long-term career with further opportunities for specialisations such as underground or surface drill and blast operations which are all things I am excited to learn.
The practical aspects of working with heavy machinery, explosives, and technical equipment is of interest to me and I am someone that has always enjoyed the challenge of a new role and new venture.
Like every millennial who is probably on their phone too much I have been impressed by BHP’s presence on social media platforms like TikTok, where I’ve seen inspiring stories from individuals who share similar experiences - everyday people who at one point may have even experienced these very engagement centres. I think the humility and authenticity of the companies culture really shines through. Seeing real people achieve remarkable things is truly motivating, and I’m excited about the opportunity to be part of a community that values innovation, collaboration, and diversity.
Tell me about your current role and what are your day to day responsibilities?
In my current role as a Trades Assistant day to day responsibilities include assisting the Mechanical Fitters with maintenance, repairs and various installations on a Paste Plant. Ive helped install pumps, align conveyor rollers, clean and lubricate equipment as well as basic tool use.
Ive worked closely with the Riggers on site, spotted various tradesmen during EWP operations and have been responsible for upholding the Housekeeping standards in our Tools and Bolts containers ensuring relevant signage is present, as well as that the area is organised, tidy, and free from any hazards.
Some days I work closely with the Grout team and have experience both in the prep and execution phases. I also am responsible for paint touch ups on site and have the knowledge of how to prepare each surface before coating as well as the mixing ratios required for our paint to ensure a high-quality finish.
How do your day to day responsibilities as a TA relate to the role you are applying for?
Although I don’t have direct experience in the drill and blast industry, my previous work experience has taught me the importance of attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving. Ive been able to develop valuable skills, including mechanical aptitude, hand-tool proficiency and the safety protocols on a construction site.
I’m eager to learn and adapt to the demands of the drill and blast industry. I’m physically fit, comfortable working in challenging environments, and mentally tough. I’m confident that my strong work ethic, transferable skills, and enthusiasm for the industry make me an ideal candidate for a drill and blast traineeship.
Can you tell me about a time you noticed a safety concern at work? What was the concern?
In my current Trade Assistant role I identified a potential hazard during a walk where one of the safety guard panels on a conveyor belt had previously been removed and had not been reinstalled before energisation. This could have had the potential to cause injury to myself or others in the work area.
What did you do about this safety concern?
I took steps to alert the issue to my supervisor and isolated the area with danger tape. We then conducted a risk assessment as a team to identify any further hazards before attempting to reinstall the guard.
The energy point of the conveyor was switched off and we were required to lock on with our safety locks before reinstalling the safety guard.
We then ensured to remove the locks once guard had been installed before energisation was continued.
What was the outcome of that safety concern?
An incident report was generated by the safety team on site and was mentioned in the next days pre-start so that everyone on site was aware of the importance of maintaining vigilance in identifying workplace hazards. That original oversight displayed the need for being proactive when it comes to safety. Taking 5 before the commencement of any task as well as regular checkins to ensure no hazards have arisen throughout the day.
Can you let me know about a problem you’ve recently solved?
Whilst assisting two other tradies with grouting, I identified a issue with our waste management. Excess grout was being left on the ground during the cut, and foam borders were being blown away by the wind.
If left unaddressed, this issue could have had significant consequences, impacting not only the task at hand but also posing a risk to others in the surrounding area and environment.
What steps did you go through to solve that problem?
I discussed the concerns with the team members and offered a solution for the task at hand.
I then ensured that the correct waste bins were available onsite, and that excess grout was disposed of immediately, reducing waste and clutter in the work area.
We continuously monitored the situation and made adjustments as needed to maintain a clean and safe work environment.
What was the outcome in solving that problem?
The outcome was an improvement in how we managed waste, reducing the risk of environmental harm and clearing any potential trip hazards. We were able to complete the task more efficiently.
What are your future career and work goals? Don’t worry - it’s also ok not to know what these are!
Upon completing the Traineeship program, I aim to become proficient in my role, equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience. I’m eager to apply my skills in real-world scenarios, working on diverse drill and blast projects and learning from experienced professionals.
As I progress, I aspire to take on senior roles, refining my skills and cementing my position within the company. Specialising in a particular area or becoming an expert in my field is a key goal. Ultimately, with experience I envision myself in a leadership role, overseeing drill and blast operations and contributing to strategic decisions.
Aside from professional growth do you have any other goals surrounding the community?
Beyond my professional growth, I’m passionate about giving back to my community. I’d love to advocate for the industry, educate future leaders, and demonstrate the life-changing opportunities available not only in the industry but with BHP also. I’m excited about the prospect of being involved in recruitment, engagement centres, or other initiatives that make a positive impact.
Outside of this traineeship do you have any career or work goals?
Outside of this traineeship I am looking for a more tailored career path. Although I love the opportunity being a Trades Assistant I think theres always more growth to be had. As a TA my current goals have been set around gaining FIFO experience and absorbing as much knowledge from the people I meet. But long term goals I would love to become trade certified wether that means finding apprenticeships like this or even studying towards a Trade I think that has been a big goal for me in moving to Perth. I don’t ever want to become stagnant or too comfortable and I think its important to push yourself to greater heights and I think on a personal level I am looking for more stability career wise.
And its exactly the same, id love to become proficient in that role, would love to take on a senior leadership position and would still love to be an advocate for the industry. Those are all things very important to me.
Working in a team is important at BHP. What skills can you bring to a team?
(Confident - Understand - Prepared - Committed - Recognise)
I’m confident in my ability to clearly convey information, listen actively, and clarify any doubts or concerns.
I understand that teamwork involves flexibility and a willingness to adapt to changing situations. I’m eager to learn from others, take direction, and contribute my skills and ideas to achieve common goals.
I’m prepared to think critically, assess situations, and take initiative to resolve issues or suggest improvements.
I’m committed to upholding the high safety standards, not just for myself, but for my team as well. Actively identifying potential hazards, reporting concerns, and following established protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
I recognise the importance of respecting and valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of my team. I’m committed to fostering a positive and inclusive team culture, where everyone feels supported and empowered to contribute.
Give me an example of when you had to support others in a team
A team member was tasked with doing paint touchups in the mixer building of our paste plant and was unaware of how to mix the paint required so I took the time to explain the process, provide demonstrations and answer any questions. I thoroughly explained where to find equipment and how to dispose of excess paint if no longer needed. By sharing this knowledge I was able to help the team member complete her task efficiently and she can now confidently mix paint on her own.
A lot of my role as Trade Assistant is helping others manage their workload. I often help by fetching tools, general housekeeping, lubricating parts required, on hot days I often do the icy pop runs, I like to consider myself an energy and morale boost - you know some long days on a mine site with various personalities, people can butt heads a lot so I can be somewhat of a mediator, offering suggestions on alternate ways to assess tasks and manage problems, team lifts and having the flexibility too help out in other departments when workload is low in the mechanical teams.
