At Unitywater’s Mango Hill office, Alexandra Meaney sat at her desk, reflecting on how much had changed in just three months. Fresh out of university with a Bachelor of Business majoring in Human Resources, she had stepped into Unitywater’s Vacation Work Program with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Now, as the internship wrapped up, she wasn’t just walking away with experience—she had landed a permanent job.
She wasn’t alone. Ten interns, including Ms Meaney, had been offered ongoing employment after completing the program. For many, it was their first real step into the workforce, a transition made smoother by an environment that offered both responsibility and support.
“This program is a great pathway into the workplace – you’re given a lot of responsibility and treated as an equal member of the team, but with a lot of support, trust and encouragement,” Ms Meaney said.
“Everyone’s been so lovely and welcoming – even little things like figuring out the systems, finding a desk or a meeting room – you feel completely supported.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
An Opportunity to Gain More Than Just Experience
For years, young professionals have faced the same challenge: breaking into the job market without prior experience. Unitywater’s Vacation Work Program was created to bridge that gap, offering university students a paid, real-world job experience. This year, 17 students took part, working across disciplines like engineering, science, ICT, communications, and analytics.
Unitywater’s Executive Manager of People, Culture and Safety, Kenan Hibberd, said the program has been running for 12 years, providing a stepping stone for students ready to move from study into the workforce. He said it’s also an opportunity to attract local talent into the water industry—an industry that many might not have previously considered.
For some interns, the program became more than just a stepping stone. Jordan Nicholson, a former participant from last year, had been in the same position as Ms Meaney, weighing his next move just before finishing his Bachelor of Science. The internship gave him something that other entry-level jobs often lacked—paid industry experience. Now, he works as a full-time Laboratory Assistant.
“I was just one month away from finishing my Bachelor of Science and starting to explore entry-level positions in the area, most of which required experience, or were not paid opportunities,” Mr Nicholson said.
“Unitywater’s Vacation Work Program was a fantastic opportunity as it provided me with industry experience while being paid to work four full days a week – it really gave me that point of difference looking for my first out-of-uni job.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
More Doors Opening for Young Professionals
Unitywater isn’t stopping at internships. The company also runs a Graduate Development Program, a two-year transition into the workplace for university graduates. This month, eight new participants will join the program.
Beyond that, there are apprenticeships and the Water Industry Work Program opportunities, creating more entry points for those looking to start their careers.
Investing in the Future of the Community
Unitywater isn’t just about water—it’s about people. The organisation provides water and wastewater services to more than 800,000 residents across Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast, and Noosa, and it is investing $1.8 billion over the next five years to ensure sustainable growth.
For Ms Meaney and her fellow interns, the journey from university to employment was made easier through a supportive program that values fresh talent. For others considering their career options, Unitywater’s early career programs continue to offer a pathway into the workforce—one that doesn’t just promise experience, but a future.
For more details on Unitywater’s career pathways, visit www.unitywater.com/career-pathways.
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