Glencore’s Vacation Student Program: Building the Future of Resources

At our Queensland Metals business, we are committed to developing the next generation of industry leaders through our Vacation Student Program. As we look ahead to our 2025/2026 intake, we aim to build on the strong response we received last year.

In 2024/2025 we focused on increasing participation, attracting a diverse range of applicants, and introducing fresh talent to our business. Our goal is to provide students with valuable hands-on experience, industry insights, and the opportunity to contribute to real projects across our operations.

Let’s see what our most recent vacation students had to say!

Caleb Gunn - Electrical Engineering, Smelter Projects, Mount Isa Mines

Bachelor (Honours) of Electrical Engineering, James Cook University Townsville

“I really enjoyed the fact that as engineers at Mount Isa Mines we work and design our projects and then get the opportunity to watch it come to life on the plant. Our days are a mix of being outside on the plant and in the office which keeps it interesting.

“When I first came out to Mount Isa, I wasn’t sure if the mining path was the one I wanted to take but after working here I am happy to say it is. Going down the path of working in the mining industry is rewarding and has become something I am passionate about.”

Jarrah Vanderpoel - Mining Engineering, George Fisher Mine

Bachelors of Engineering (Honours) (Mining), University of New South Wales, Sydney

“I heard about Glencore’s Vacation Program through AusIMM networking events. I was attracted to apply as it is a highly regarded program that provides a bunch of unique experiences other programs don’t offer.

“My experience in the program has shaped my understanding of the resource industry, up until now I hadn’t had any real exposure to mining. It has shown me the real-life, day-to-day operations that occur underground which provides invaluable experience and knowledge for when you’re up in the office designing what will happen underground.

“It has definitely shown me different ways I can take my career whether it’s working in an operational role or a technical role.”

Rebekah Coleman - Information Systems and Technology, Townsville Operations

Bachelor of Information Technology - Majoring in Business Analysis, James Cook University, Townsville

“I wasn't familiar with vacation programs until a university friend participated in one. Glencore is a local business and one of the few mines offering vacation placements for IT students, so it seemed like the perfect fit.

“The best part of the vacation program has been working directly with stakeholders and seeing a project through from its inception to successful completion, while playing an important role in making that happen. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that anything is achievable - sometimes you just need to adjust your approach or tools, but it’s always possible to find a solution!

“This experience has given me a better understanding of the IT systems that support the resources industry. It’s much more complex and fast-paced than I expected, which is right up my alley!”

Ty Hilton - Mechanical Engineering, Smelter Projects, Mount Isa Mines

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours) at Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane

“I was born in Mount Isa and moved to Brisbane for university.

“During high school, Mount Isa Mines spoke to the year 12 students about the Vacation Program and scholarships on offer. Most of my family work within Glencore so I was interested and as soon as it was offered, I applied.

“I wasn’t completely sure if engineering was the job I wanted to pursue once I had completed university. However, the Vacation Program has allowed me to decide that this is the path for me.

“I had the belief that when I finished my degree I’d be thrown straight into the deep end and forced to figure it out on my own. Participating in the Vacation Program helped me see that this is not the case and that there will always be someone to support you and point you into the right direction.”

Bella McMahon - Environment, HSEC, Mount Isa Mines

Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours), The University of Newcastle

“The best part of the Vacation Program has been the opportunity to immerse myself in the mining industry and gain firsthand insight into its operations. I’ve really enjoyed learning about the various processes involved, particularly as an enviro where compliance and cultural heritage activities allow you to get out and explore different areas of the operation.

“Meeting new people and exploring the Mount Isa region in our down-time has also been a lot of fun. With most of the vacation students living together it’s easy to make lasting connections with your peers.

“The most valuable thing I've learned is the importance of maintaining a balance between industry goals and environmental responsibility, as well as the critical role that effective teamwork plays in achieving these objectives.”

Jade King - Chemical and Sustainable Process Engineering, Lead Zinc Project Metallurgist

Bachelor of Chemical and Sustainable Process Engineering (Honours), Queensland University of Technology

I am of Indigenous heritage and my family is Waayni, from the Lawn Hill area, north-west of Mount Isa.

“In 2021, while in high school, my passion for metallurgy was ignited when I completed a week of work experience at the Copper Concentrator. I have always had a love for science, in particular chemistry and found enjoyment in learning how we as metallurgists are able to take raw materials and process them into viable resources.

“I started with Mount Isa Mines as a Metallurgical Intern in 2022. After 18 months I received a Technical Development Scholarship and commenced my university studies. This is my second placement on the Vacation Program in Mount Isa.

Glencore has allowed me to develop my understanding and appreciation of the multiple facets of the metallurgy field. Working within an operation of this size has provided insight into the interrelationships between technical areas and the skills required to efficiently and effectively operate a large-scale operation – overall defining the attributes I aspire to develop as an up-and-coming metallurgist.”

Fiona Pascoe, Manager Human Resources and Training said it’s great to see the increase in applicants and diversity of talent coming through the program.

“By investing in early-career talent offering pathways like the Vacation Program, we aim to strengthen our workforce to ensure that our operations continue to evolve with new ideas and perspectives into the future,” says Fiona.

Applications for the 2025/2026 intake open on 28 April and will be accepted until 25 May 2025. Don’t miss your chance to join Glencore’s Vacation Student Program.