Fortescue: Community Investment in Future Workforce

Fortescue is channelling resources into Pilbara communities through targeted grant programmes designed to foster innovation and sustainable development. The initiatives aim to create pathways for local residents while strengthening the region's capacity for future industry needs.

The company's community investment strategy focuses on delivering practical opportunities that enhance skills and broaden horizons for Pilbara residents. By supporting sustainable initiatives and educational programmes, Fortescue is working to create lasting benefits for the communities surrounding its operations.

Operating as a global green technology, energy and metals company, Fortescue has built its foundation in the Pilbara since establishing its flagship Cloudbreak minesite in 2003. The company now operates two mining hubs connected by 760 kilometres of rail infrastructure.

Fortescue's core values encompass empowerment, integrity, courage, humility and innovation as it pursues decarbonisation objectives across the mining sector. The company's commitment extends beyond operational excellence to encompass community investment.

Fortescue has developed innovations for use across its mining operations and is now commercialising these technologies for other organisations. Its sustainability framework addresses environmental concerns alongside social responsibilities, including First Nations heritage protection and economic opportunity creation through mentoring, local procurement and employment initiatives. The Vocational Training and Employment Centre has been establishing career pathways for First Nations people for over 16 years.

Practical learning in action

The Grants Programmes are delivering hands-on learning experiences to students throughout the Pilbara region. According to the initiative's framework, young people are being exposed to science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts while Fortescue simultaneously develops its future talent pipeline.

South Hedland Primary School has received grant funding to implement a STEM programme that brings real-world challenges into classroom settings. The school has acquired scientific equipment, renewable energy kits and environmental testing tools to facilitate interactive learning experiences.

"In the Pilbara, education and opportunity go hand in hand. By supporting programs like this at South Hedland Primary School, we're helping young people build the skills, confidence and curiosity they need to thrive in a changing world," says Rosli Wheelock, Fortescue's Director of Approvals, Communities and Services.

“Hands-on STEM learning connects students to real challenges in their own community and shows them that innovation, problem-solving and future pathways have a place right here in the Pilbara.”

Aligning education with operations

Students are engaging with topics directly relevant to Fortescue's operations and Pilbara life, including renewable energy and climate science. Through inquiry-based learning using professional-grade tools, young people are developing problem-solving capabilities while gaining insight into STEM applications within their community.

Fortescue has recently introduced two battery electric locomotives to its Pilbara rail network, which could eliminate approximately one million litres of diesel consumption annually. The company is also constructing an integrated system combining large-scale wind and solar generation with battery storage and transmission infrastructure.

Dino Otranto, Fortescue Metals and Operations Chief Executive Officer, says: "Through Pilbara Energy Connect, we have already constructed more than 480 kilometres of high-voltage transmission lines, physically linking our energy assets to our operations and rail network. This infrastructure enables renewable power to replace diesel and gas, in real time, across the Pilbara."

Students across the region are now learning about the decarbonisation strategies and sustainable operations being implemented in their area. Through exploring these environmental concepts, young people are gaining understanding of potential industry pathways and environmental impacts.

All sustainability, net zero and sustainable supply chain leaders should attend:

• Sustainability LIVE: The Net Zero Summit - QEII Centre, London, March 4-5
• Sustainability LIVE: The US Summit - Navy Pier, Chicago, April 21-22

Co-located with Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE, these events brings together CSOs, ESG leaders and senior decision-makers at a moment when sustainability, supply chains and commercial performance are increasingly interconnected.

Tickets can be booked online today for The Net Zero Summit and The US Summit. Group discounts available.

Building confidence and capability

The programme encourages students to test ideas, question assumptions and collaborate on solutions. This approach is developing both technical skills and the confidence required for innovation. Students who may not have previously considered STEM as a viable pathway are discovering new possibilities.

"Fortescue's support has allowed us to expand STEM learning beyond the classroom through the establishment of an after-school STEM Club. Students are enthusiastic, curious and thriving as they explore STEM in a hands-on way," says Lee Pereira, South Hedland Primary School Principal.

Lee notes that early exposure to STEM could be critical in building the skills and curiosity students need for future learning and careers, with programmes like this helping to establish foundations for innovation.

The learning experiences have also encouraged students to implement changes at home, including recycling practices and reduced energy consumption. Students are beginning to recognise connections between classroom learning and how STEM is shaping the Pilbara's future.

Through these grant programmes and educational investments, Fortescue is working to develop a capable future workforce with skills to contribute positively across the Pilbara region.