Inland Rail drives skills and training focus for Humes
Australian precast concrete manufacturer, Humes has capitalised on the opportunity of working with Inland Rail to invest in and strengthen its operations, people and products.
September 17, 2020
Humes’ Tamworth factory locally manufactured and delivered more than 22,600 tonnes of carbon neutral precast concrete culverts for rail track and road connections as part of the 103km Parkes to Narromine section of Inland Rail.
To achieve this industry-leading sustainability milestone, Humes is investing $2million in capital upgrades to its Tamworth factory, employed an additional 30 people from the local region and engaged other local suppliers and contractors to complete associated works.
For Chris Hughes, Humes Tamworth operational manager, working on Inland Rail has helped to further enhance and diversify the skills of their local workforce.
“The Inland Rail project has required us to invest in our Tamworth team, upskill them and provide formal and informal training to meet the Parkes to Narromine project’s technical requirements,” Chris said.
“It has also given the opportunity to source skilled workers from elsewhere who have committed to staying with us long term and enhancing the talent pool for the local community.”
Various professional development initiatives within Humes were driven by its Tamworth team, with skills in digital and automation disciplines, and formal qualifications including Cert IV and Diplomas in high demand.
“The Inland Rail project has enabled us to strengthen our relationships with local suppliers and contractors to meet project requirements, while building a strong multi-disciplined team within the local community,” Chris said.
