Amy and Layla One cadetship program, two different paths: Meet Amy and Layla, our newest Port Operations Cadets
Amy Watson and Layla Gardner have had very different journeys through life so far, but their paths have led them to the same place: PBPL. In March 2021, they became the first to join our new Port Operations Cadetship Program. As it is for anyone starting out, there were a few nerves. But there’s also great excitement. Together, they’re helping shape the future of the Port, and paving the way for an inclusive, diverse workforce.
THE FIRST STEP TO A NEW CAREER
Throughout the two year Port Operations Cadetship program, Amy and Layla will receive on-the-job training in four operational areas across PBPL.
Amy has begun her rotation in shipping operations, learning the ins-and-outs of the shipping schedules in our Port. She’s stationed under Damien, who is keen to pass on his knowledge after almost three decades of experience with us.
Meanwhile, Layla has been stationed in the Brisbane Multimodal Terminal (BMT), moving shipping containers on and off trains and trucks. She made the choice to leave behind a career in hairdressing and pursue a cadetship at PBPL instead.
“I was part-way through my apprenticeship, and I felt like each day was just a repetition of the same five haircuts. I wanted a career where I had variety in my daily work - and room to grow and develop. That’s what drew me to PBPL.”
While Layla is at the start of her career journey, Amy has had a rich working life in a range of industries. She left the police force in 2017 and took on three part-time jobs simultaneously. After a few years of tough work and long hours, she decided to look for a job she could turn into a stable career.
“I’ve done everything from disability support, to bartending, to international disaster relief. But I wanted a career that would offer me an opportunity for progression, and I didn’t see that in disability or hospitality work. A friend was working in the marine industry, and had heard PBPL was recruiting. When I researched the cadetship, I realised it would be the perfect opportunity for me.”JUMPING ON BOARD
While they might not have much in common in terms of their previous experience, Amy and Layla share similarities in terms of values: curiosity, commitment and camaraderie. Their stories show that people from all backgrounds can have a fulfilling career at PBPL.
“A career at the Port, and in logistics is just something I had never considered. It was a family member that suggested I have a look at the job and told me this is one of the best opportunities they’d seen to kick off a new career in Brisbane – and they were right”.
Both cadets face a steep learning curve at the job, but they’re heartened by the support they receive from their colleagues. Layla’s biggest challenge is driving the forklifts - operating large machinery is a far cry from her hairdressing experience, she says with a laugh - and Amy is learning the technology side of shipping.
“Everyone has been patient and understanding. There are people here with decades of experience, but they still remember what it was like to be a new starter. I’m grateful for their willingness to share their expertise with a smile on their face.”
The cadets reflect that it isn’t just their immediate team members who have welcomed them with open arms - it extends to the entire workplace.
“I’ve only been here for a few months, but I’ve definitely been impressed by how progressive and innovative the company is. From their environmental management to taking care of our wellbeing in human resources - they’re very forward-thinking. I feel like I’ve been embraced by the company.”
We’re so glad our new Port Operations Cadets are enjoying their start at PBPL and feeling supported along the way. We wish them well as they work through their Diploma of Logistics course.
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