“If trucks stop, Australia stops,” says Sherree Cahill, an apprentice at Bruce Rock Engineering (BRE). Cahill is currently working towards her Certificate III in Automotive Manufacturing Technical Operations – Bus, Truck, and Trailer. She is proud of her achievements and excited about her future. With ambitions to further develop her skills and obtain her truck license, she shares her thoughts on why it’s never too late to start an apprenticeship and how she values the purpose and friendships she has gained throughout her career.
What do you see for your future after you are qualified?
I plan to stay with BRE but would like to explore other departments in locations like Perth or Port Hedland. In Perth, I could learn how to weld chassis and dollies, while in Port Hedland, I would service trucks and trailers. I also hope to get my truck license.
What do you wish you knew before you started your trade qualification?
I wish I had known that this apprenticeship was what I wanted to pursue right after finishing high school. However, it’s never too late to start an apprenticeship, as life can take us in different directions. I do not regret my choice to enter this trade, as I have learned many valuable life skills that I will use both during work and in my personal life.
What advice would you give to a student today who is considering a trade career in mining or resources?
My advice for students is that if you have the opportunity to pursue an apprenticeship straight out of school, take it. I regret not doing this when I first graduated, but I love my job at BRE. During my time as an apprentice, I have made some great friends. When I was trying to get an apprenticeship, I faced naysayers who told me I would never be able to secure one, and that I should give up. Being female and my age at the time made things more challenging, but I didn’t let that deter me from pursuing my dreams. As a third-year apprentice, I’m excited to celebrate three years at BRE this October. Knowing that my work contributes to our economy—because if trucks stop, Australia stops—gives me a strong sense of purpose. Seeing a trailer I helped build, along with the plumbing work I did inside, on the road or in the mining sector is an amazing feeling. Although there will be tough times filled with sweat and tears, the good and exciting times ahead will make it all worthwhile. I would love the chance to support future women in trades like me.
