Apprentice Riki makes her dreams come true with Downer

Meet Riki, a proud young Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander woman originally from regional Queensland.

After graduating high school in November 2017, Riki moved to Brisbane with her sister, seeking greater opportunities in the engineering industry. Although she loved her hometown of Bauhinia, Riki knew that her dreams of becoming an engineer would be limited if she stayed. Motivated by practicality and a desire to be a positive role model, Riki received the full support of her family when she left home to pursue her dreams.

Riki has always been an active member of her school community and was acknowledged by her peers and faculty as Vice-Captain. She has also been involved in several excellence programs, such as the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy Program, Mitsui Coal Intensive Language Program, Thiess Mining and Resource Workshop, and Inspire U Program.

In January 2018, Riki's dream of commencing a fitting and turning apprenticeship became a reality when she started her apprenticeship with Downer. This exciting opportunity marks the beginning of Riki's journey towards building a successful engineering career.

Throughout her apprenticeship, Riki has shown an unwavering commitment and passion for her trade. She has been motivated, mentored, and inspired by those around her at Downer's Mineral Technologies. With her talent, drive, and determination, there is no doubt that Riki will continue to achieve great things in her career.