AWI Graduate Training Program 2025 update
Taite O’Neill from WA has been selected to join the AWI Graduate Training Program, through which she will gain a thorough understanding of the wool supply chain from fibre to fashion.
The AWI Graduate Training Program will enable Taite to gain experience in all areas of the AWI business including on-farm and off-farm R&D through to marketing, including global exposure to the wool supply chain through international rotations to pivotal markets in Asia and Europe.
“The prospect of exploring all aspects of the Australian wool industry and expanding my knowledge is incredibly exciting. I am looking forward to learning as much about our supply chain as possible and fulfilling my desire to contribute to AWI’s vision,” Taite said.
Taite’s wool journey began at home on the family farm at Ongerup in Western Australia’s Great Southern region. It was here that her deep-rooted connection to the wool industry inspired her to study a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Murdoch University. It didn’t take long for Taite’s passion to strengthen and grow and spark a keen interest in learning more about wool beyond the farm gate.
Taite will make the move to Sydney in early March to start the 18-month program.
“AWI saw a 22% increase in applications this year, a clear indication of the passionate and enthusiastic young talent we have within the wool Industry. We look forward to having Taite on board,” said AWI CEO John Roberts.
2024 AWI graduate Oskar Mitchell from Cowra in NSW is half-way through his program and is currently working in AWI’s research team.
Both of AWI’s 2023 graduates, Kate Rice and Harrison Dunning, have made significant contributions to many of AWI’s projects and initiatives during the past 18 months and they will continue to do so within their new roles. Kate has moved into the role of Stakeholder Communications Coordinator, supporting both AWI’s General Manager of Consultation & Engagement, and the Marketing Content Manager. Harrison has joined AWI’s Global Sustainability Team, supporting AWI’s Global Sustainability Manager in the delivery of Woolmark+ and AWI’s broader sustainability initiatives.
This article appeared in the December 2024 edition of AWI’s Beyond the Bale magazine. Reproduction of the article is encouraged.
