This summer CSBP Fertilisers is providing the agricultural leaders of tomorrow with an unparalleled learning opportunity as part of its 2024-25 Vacation Program.

Now in its second year, the program dovetails into a broader initiative delivered by Wesfarmers Chemicals, Energy & Fertilisers (WesCEF), which provides students with paid workplace experience.   

Students involved in the program are provided with an opportunity to learn about CSBP’s core operational areas. In this year’s cohort there are three agricultural students working with CSBP’s Agronomy and Sales & Marketing teams, while four students will complete the program working in engineering, commercial and digital/data positions. 

Participants are paired with experienced leaders during their learning journey at CSBP and throughout the 12-week program are required to complete workshops, attend site tours and work on projects specific to their area of expertise.  

CSBP Fertilisers General Manager Ryan Lamp expressed the company’s excitement to offer this opportunity to Western Australian students making their first steps in the agricultural industry.    

“CSBP has been a cornerstone of agriculture for over a century. As industry leaders, we’re constantly seeking innovative ways to support the sector,” Mr Lamp said. “Our annual Vacation Program is designed to give the next generation invaluable experience. We aim to equip them with practical skills, enhance their commercial insight, deepen their understanding of agriculture, and foster leadership qualities. Their participation will be crucial to ensuring CSBP continues delivering the best advice, experience, and reliability to WA growers well into the future.

The program serves as an important talent pathway for students beyond their studies. CSBP Trainee Account Manager for Esperance, Chelsea Exell, completed the program last summer as a student and encouraged this year’s cohort to take advantage of the expertise and opportunities on offer.  

 “The program last year was incredibly valuable, as it was the first stepping stone in my time here at CSBP, but also since finishing my degree,” Ms Exell said. “Once completing the project, I stayed on as a regional Customer Service Officer (CSO) while completing my final two units of university online. Both the Vacation Program and being a CSO gave me a clearer insight into appointments and despatch at CSBP Esperance – which helped me transition smoothly into my next role as Trainee Account Manager as I had built customer relations and deepened my product and service understanding.”

Agricultural science student Lucy Barnett, who hails from Albany, is working with the CSBP Sales team over the summer. Ms Barnett, who already works in CSBP’s regional Customer Service team in the Great Southern, said she was delighted to have the opportunity to participate in the program. 

   “I am hoping to gain knowledge of agronomy-based skills and research, and the trials CSBP run in hand with such. Having the opportunity to network with professionals and mentors within the business will provide a huge step to my career in the agronomy and agricultural industry,” Ms Barnett said.

Another agricultural science student relishing the opportunity is Chloe Elsegood. Ms Elsegood, who is originally from Mingenew, said the CSBP Vacation Program stood out as a great opportunity to learn about all aspects of an agricultural business with a passionate and knowledgeable team.  

 “CSBP is a trusted industry leader in WA and this program is a brilliant chance to learn about the ins and outs of such a large business as well as meet a wide variety of people working in the industry,” Ms Elsegood said. “The project I’ve been assigned has been tailored to suit my interests and further develop my skills. I’m thrilled to be able to apply what I’ve learned in a practical setting. Overall, this program is setting me up for an exciting future in the ag industry and is an experience I’d wholeheartedly recommend to other students.”

Cunderdin Agri Business student Oaklee Treasure, who is working with the CSBP Sales team, said her passion for agriculture along with her studies had driven her decision to join the program.  

   “I believe that by working with CSBP I will gain valuable industry experience and knowledge, aiding me to further my career and support the generations of grain producers to come – while also aligning with my goal of working in agricultural innovation and sustainability. Understanding that fertilisers are key to ensuring healthy crops for efficient food production and allowing food security challenges to be tackled, enforced confidence in my decision,” she said.

Perth-based Data Science student Mitchell Otley is working with CSBP’s Agtech team throughout the program and is excited to be developing his technical abilities.  

  “I chose to apply for the WesCEF Vacation Program because it is a terrific opportunity to gain insight into the data science industry and apply the skills I have learned through my tertiary studies in a professional scenario, to make a positive impact on the lives of others,” Mr Otley said.

Meanwhile, Euan Hough, who is spending his summer with the CSBP Commercial team, was keen to apply what he’d learned from his studies and experience how a key business in WA’s agriculture sector operated firsthand.  

   “CSBP is a reputable business with great people and clear values. Getting to work alongside some of WA’s best is a real privilege – the learning, connections and experiences are sure to hold me in good stead going forward,” Mr Hough said.

CSBP’s Vacation Program supports WesCEF’s Vacation Work Program by focusing on enhancing critical talent pipelines, increasing workforce diversity and building capability towards further cadetship and graduate workplace opportunities. There are 17 students across WesCEF participating in this program.  

For more information on career opportunities at CSBP Fertilisers visit csbpfertilisers.com/careers.