Paving New Paths: Wilson Security's Making Tracks Program Empowers Indigenous Careers
As a landmark initiative within the security industry, Making Tracks forms part of Wilson Security's Reconciliation Action Plan, which seeks to foster employment, training and career opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Making Tracks - a holistic training program that supports new entrants to the Security Industry - was developed and launched by Wilson Security in 2019 as a part of our commitment to achieve employment parity with the representation of Indigenous peoples in our business.
Our National Indigenous Engagement Manager, Chris Davies, has this to say about Making Tracks:
"The Making Tracks Program is not just offering employment to First Nations people. It is an opportunity for individuals to change their lives and develop skills and knowledge to better themselves professionally and personally. Witnessing people's transformation through this program is the highlight of my job".
Making Tracks Across Australia
Pictured: QLD Making Tracks Graduation, November 2023
Since its launch in 2019, Wilson has been facilitating Making Tracks programs nationally, with over 150 people participating. In FY23, our Indigenous Engagement Officers facilitated Making Tracks programs in Darwin, Townsville, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, and Sydney, which have resulted in some incredible results:
- 7 Programs completed.
- 75 Total Participants.
- 51 Indigenous participants.
- 21 Female participants.
- 51 Total Employed.
- 16 Awaiting license.
Program Structure and Goals
The Making Tracks program is designed as a comprehensive and holistic entry-level program, preparing participants for a diverse career in security. The program addresses the underrepresentation of Indigenous people in the security industry and empowers participants with the skills and confidence to succeed in their chosen careers.
Participants in the Making Tracks program complete comprehensive non-accredited preparation for work training and both an accredited Certificate II in Security Operations. Overlaying the whole course is ongoing mentoring by our Indigenous Engagement Officers (IEO's) to ensure that all participants are given the best chance to succeed.
Wilson Security directly employs three dedicated Indigenous Engagement Officers to support our current and future Indigenous employees ensuring sustainable employment outcomes and increase the recruitment and retention of Indigenous employees.
Wilson Group - Making Tracks Training Program from Wilson Group on Vimeo.
Upon completion of the program and receipt of their Security licence, participants are offered full-time or casual employment with a minimum of 25 hours per week. This is based on participants' preferences and suitability.
If participants do not complete the program or cannot be issued a Security licence, our Indigenous Engagement Officers will work with the participant to find alternative employment.
The program goes beyond the learnings of security training alone, with additional education providing an opportunity to develop the participant's skills and knowledge to better themselves professionally and personally - sometimes having a life-changing impact.
Program Impact and Testimonials: Voices of Change and Success
A Site Manager working at a Federal Government location on behalf of Wilson Security in Townsville completed Making Tracks in 2021. The Manager is a highly respected community member and took on a mentoring role with his peers. Since starting with Wilson Security, he has encouraged 10 Indigenous people to gain their security licence and join the business.
Reflecting on Making Tracks, the Manager says:
"Our people don't need a handout; we need a hand up. Wilson Security gave me their hand – it's now time to pay it forward".
As a result of the program's success, Wilson Security has gained recognition for its commitment to empowering Indigenous people and other underrepresented groups within the community.
"Our clients have all sung your praises; your attention to detail, support, coaching, knowledge and humility really hit home," says Employment Services Provider, atWork Australia.
"They are all eagerly looking forward to putting on the Wilson uniform for the first time, along with their freshly printed security licences! A huge thanks to the Wilson team for all your support and expertise!"
The Making Tracks program has set a remarkable example for other organisations to follow in promoting greater diversity and inclusion in their respective industries.
The Future of Making Tracks
Pictured: Making Tracks Graduation, Brisbane.
Wilson Security continues to invest in this and other programs as it seeks to expand the security industry's ability to support healthier, happier and more connected communities across the nation.
"We hope this serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Indigenous people and other underrepresented groups seeking rewarding careers in the security industry," says Nick Frangoulis, Chief Executive Officer of Wilson Security.
"By offering comprehensive training, mentorship, and work experience, this program hopes to empower all participants to achieve their full potential and contribute to building a unified, diverse and strong workforce."
A Path Toward Inclusive Growth
In conclusion, Wilson Security's Making Tracks program embodies our unwavering commitment to driving positive change and fostering inclusive growth.
As the program continues to expand across Australia, it promises to impact the lives of many more individuals, fostering greater diversity and inclusion within the security sector and supporting wider communities to flourish.
Through our concerted efforts in training, mentoring, and employment, we are not just creating pathways in the security industry but building bridges to a more equitable and empowered future. Like those emerging from Townsville, our success stories are a testament to the transformative power of opportunity and support.
Follow Our Journey: Follow Us on LinkedIn
Follow Wilson Security's transformative journey towards reconciliation and community empowerment by following us on LinkedIn.
Written by Jaime Kendler-Arnold
