In this month’s DON KR Castlemaine feature we chatted to two inspirational women who have forged exciting new career paths in the trades since joining the local manufacturer.
Maree Cross joined the DON team 16 years ago looking for a new challenge.
“I started out working in the harness racing industry at Kilmore, before moving home to Campbells Creek seeking a change and securing a job at DON.
“It was meant to be a temporary role, but I never left!” Maree said.
“I started on the floor in Bacon load out and did that for about 12 months. Then I went across to Ham preparing hams for baking and slicing. I worked in that area for 11 years until I was ready to tackle something new. I saw a fitting apprenticeship advertised in the maintenance department, and I thought why not have a go.
“I learnt on the job alongside the maintenance team, working six weeks hands on in the factory and a week at Bendigo TAFE. I rotated around the factory in six month blocks, learning all the machinery as I went.
“It really pushed me out of my comfort zone. It was extremely challenging at times juggling work, study and home life but everyone was really encouraging and supportive. I persevered and after four years I am thrilled to now be fully qualified,” she said.
Maree’s career has now come full circle, with her returning to the Ham department as a fitter.
“I am based in Ham and cover Bacon when needed. We need to be flexible and ready for whatever comes our way.
“I’d definitely encourage other women to consider a career in the trades. There is never a dull moment. No two days are the same, it’s always challenging you and testing your skills.
“I was told once I got my qualification it would open up my career pathways, but I don’t have any plans to go anywhere. I’m happy right where I am,” Maree said.
Apprenticeship sparks new career
Nicole Robinson will celebrate her 10th anniversary with DON KR Castlemaine on July 18.
Nicole started out on the floor as a production worker on a line in Bacon slicing.
“I then stepped up to become a line operator, and then up again into a management role as an Area Coordinator,” she said.
“Five years ago I made the switch to take on an electrician apprenticeship.
“It was something I had always wanted to do, but up until then the timing hadn’t been right,” Nicole said.
“I learnt my trade on the job throughout the factory and via formal study at Bendigo TAFE. I went through TAFE at the same time as Maree so it was good to have someone to share the experience with and to be able to support each other along the way.
“It was certainly challenging at times juggling full-time work, study and motherhood. My son turns 11 on Sunday! But everyone was very supportive and I was proud to complete my qualification in February.
“My son was really proud! He told all his friends at after school care before I’d even confirmed I passed!” Nicole said.
“The company has been really supportive right along the way. The best partnership that DON had was with Kowelec – Electrical Services. They sent me out to work with the Kowelec team for three weeks to learn the domestic side of the role outside of the factory fence. It’s a really broad umbrella and it really helped my understanding of that facet of the learning and strengthened my skills overall.”
Nicole has also experienced a full circle moment, returning to Bacon as a fully qualified electrician.
“It’s really tested my skill set, learning all the machines. Interpreting the instructions, with much of the specialised machinery being from overseas.
“We have a big focus on maintenance to try and prevent breakdowns, but when they do happen we jump in to try and get people and production back on track as soon as possible. Having worked on that side of the business I can appreciate and understand both sides.
“I’m really proud of what I have been able to achieve and I’d really encourage others thinking about a career change or taking on an apprenticeship to jump at it. You won’t regret it,” she said.