We are proud to celebrate another milestone achievement at our Kathleen Valley Lithium Operation, as Vaughan Harris becomes the first Tjiwarl community member to complete an apprenticeship with Liontown.

Vaughan, who grew up in Leonora and completed his final two years of high school at the Cunderdin College of Agriculture was at first unsure of the path he wanted to take after school. He began his journey into the electrical trade at 23 and today his perseverance and commitment have paid off. It’s a life-changing achievement for Vaughan and a historic moment in Liontown’s partnership with the Tjiwarl community.

“Being the first Tjiwarl apprentice to complete an apprenticeship here at Liontown feels exciting,” Vaughan said. “I hope it shows other Tjiwarl members, and even non-members, that it’s absolutely possible to complete an apprenticeship with Liontown’s support and the support of the community.”

Vaughan credits his success to the support of his mentors, supervisors, colleagues and family.

“Firstly, I’d like to thank Liontown Maintenance Manager Dean Lilly for meeting with me at the end of 2023 and giving me a short interview. Without him, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity. I also want to thank all of the electrical team, past and present, who have helped shape me into the person I am today. And, of course, my family for believing in me, and my wife Cate for always encouraging me through self-doubt.”

Balancing an apprenticeship with family life has had its challenges. Vaughan and Cate welcomed their first daughter, Aurora, in 2023, all while both navigating the demands of low-income trainee roles and university studies. “Our little challenge and crazy girl Aurora has helped by being the easiest baby but growing into the craziest, animal-loving, bush-obsessed toddler,” Vaughan shared. While challenging, it was a journey that set them both up for a lifetime of strength and success in fields they love.

Vaughan has had a great time being part of the Liontown team at Kathleen Valley. “One of my most memorable moments was Christmas in 2024, when I sang ‘Teenage Dirtbag’ on karaoke. Being part of the team and becoming a family we could rely on really does give us the confidence to do anything.”

His apprenticeship may be complete, but Vaughan isn’t ready to stop learning and developing his skills. Cate also recently completed her university studies in chemical engineering and metallurgy which has led her to an exciting career in Karratha, where the family is relocating to in the new year. “I hope to keep expanding my electrical knowledge, taking up extra courses and training.” Vaughan shared. “When I get to Karratha, I’m hoping to start out in the rail side of things, which interests me most, but whatever I end up doing will likely be new to me, and that’s exciting in itself.”

Vaughan’s advice to future apprentices is simple: “Keep going and always believe in yourself. If you don’t understand something, ask questions and try repeating it back so you know you truly get it. FIFO isn’t for everyone, but an apprenticeship is only four years – it goes by very quickly, just stick to it.”

Liontown is committed to creating social and economic value in the communities in which it operates, partnering closely with Tjiwarl to provide meaningful employment and training opportunities. Well done to Vaughan and the team who supported him on this journey.