Best job, best pay, best people
The idea of operating heavy machinery has always appealed to Ebony Arthur, but confidence and fear that she wouldn’t be good enough held her back until she did the Whiti Supply Chain Programme. Now she’s doing the best job she’s ever had, earning the best money with the best people.
“My mum did the Whiti Programme, and she thought it was really good and that it was something I would be into – mum knows best because I did enjoy it,” says Ebony, who was on the benefit and job hunting at the time.
“Confidence was a big factor for me. I didn’t have a lot going, but the tutors are good at bringing you out of that and putting your mind to the task.”
Ebony says she was worried about going in because she’s been on other courses before and didn’t get much out of them. “That made me worry that I wouldn’t be good enough to get my license, but the Whiti Programme shifted my mindset and encouraged me to be the best I could be.”
The virtual reality component of the programme was unexpected.
“I’m not really into PlayStation, but the simulator was nothing like gaming – it’s far more true to life. I was challenged to pass my levels every step of the way, but we were also encouraged to stay on it.”
Once Ebony passed her virtual reality levels, she took the controls of a real forklift, which included testing over an obstacle course.
“It was fun, and it was challenging, but having completed the virtual reality simulator made dealing with the machine much easier – operating a forklift seemed a million times easier than I had expected.”
Of most value to Ebony were the tutors. “They helped me find outside employment. They encouraged me to be my best and to step out of my comfort zone, and they helped me do that.”
The Whiti Supply Chain Programme helped Ebony find employment as an Orchard Hand Apprentice.
“It’s the best job and best pay I’ve had – we drive tractors and stuff like that, but in addition to the job itself, my manager and the people I work with are great.”
“I tell people it opens more doors than you think and makes you aware of all the options out there – it certainly broadened my worldview of the job market.”
