Montanna Homosi is one of the latest university students to take advantage of Rio Tinto Weipa cadetship program as she explores her passion for engineering. Photo: Supplied.
Montanna Homosi, a proud Ankamuthi woman and local university student, is thriving in her new role at Rio Tinto’s Weipa operation as the first engineering cadet engaged through the mining giant’s cadetship program.
Ms Homosi grew up in Weipa and said she always dreamed of pursuing a career in mining in a role that combined her love of engineering with meaningful contributions to her community, and now, as part of Rio Tinto’s mechanical engineering team, she is putting her classroom learning into action.
After starting her cadetship last year, Ms Homosi is expected to complete her Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in 2027.
“This last year has been great for me,” the cadet said.
“I’ve learned things I couldn’t have learned in a classroom; every day brings something new, and I love being part of a team that supports my growth.
“I would really recommend this program to other young people; it’s a fantastic way to get your foot in the door.”
Rio Tinto’s Weipa cadetship program is a localised initiative specific to Local Aboriginal Persons (LAP) and combines full-time university study in mining-related disciplines with paid, practical experience in specialised fields, including geology, environmental science, humanities and law.
The program continues to make a significant impact on Cape York by fostering local talent and strengthening ties between the miner and the community.
Applications for the 2025 Weipa cadetship program are now open.
For more information, or to apply, contact Rosselle Christie at [email protected].
