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Case Study

Name: Allan Lindley
Position: Shift Supervisor
Company: Wespine Industries
Qualifications: 

• Quad-Saw Operator


• Edger Operator


• Gang-Saw Operator


• Trimmer Operator


• Bin-Sorter Operator


• Auto-Stacker Operator

Age: 34

As a shift supervisor, what are your responsibilities?
I make sure the plant is running at full capacity and coordinate production to obtain optimal efficiency in our use of machines and labour. I also ensure green-mill staff maintain safe working conditions and environment. I have twelve people in my shift at the moment, but that changes depending on the volume of wood and planning required.

Do you enjoy the responsibility of your position?
Initially, to be in charge of a shift on my own seemed daunting, it’s a lot of responsibility but I do enjoy it.
 

When did you first start out in the forestry industry?
I was 17 when I first started out here - I came straight out of school and I’ve just stayed!
 
What training have you done?
I’ve done all my training on the job.  I've been trained as a Quad-Saw Operator, Edger Operator, Gang-Saw Operator as well as a few other operator roles.
I’m still involved in further training - there are always things that I’m learning, especially on the computer and the technical side of things.
 
Is there scope for promotion?
There are definitely opportunities! There’s a lot on offer if you put your mind to it. When another position does come up, then I would certainly be happy to take it! I’m always up for a challenge, especially in learning more of the technical aspect to my job.
 
Do you live close to the mill?
I live locally, about a 15 minute drive from here.
I have a young family and so we enjoy Bunbury as it is a very good place to bring up kids: lots of beaches, lots of things to do and the weather’s great too!
 
We spoke to Allan about his career and what he does day to day. We hope you find this useful and interesting – but please remember, that all jobs are not exactly the same and other roles with the same title may be different in many respects. Confirm all the details of a particular job with the organisation offering it.