Mark Skinner's employment record at Telfer is a classic example of progression through the ranks.
Mark was celebrating his 37th birthday when Kujungkarrini caught up with him.
His working life at Telfer began after he completed a plant operators' course at the Pundulmurra campus of Pilbara TAFE in South Hedland about four years ago.
Mark's first job at Telfer was with the Exploration department as a surveyor's assistant.
He then moved to the warehouse, followed by stints as a gardener and a Pit Technician.
Mark always had his eyes on driving one of the big haul trucks and his performance record, together with his level of enthusiasm for the job, helped secure him an invitation to join the Open Pit drivers team.
Senior Community Relations Advisor Ben Bryant attributes Mark's continuing career successes to some of his personality traits.
“Mark is mentally tough, he is capable, personable, and has a very good sense of humour.
“He found it tough driving the trucks at first, and he would be very tired at the end of a shift. But, to his credit, Mark toughed it out and, from all reports, he's now doing well.”