ABOUT PKD TRAINING

PKD Training delivers practical, industry-focused training designed to prepare Learners for entry-level roles within the Critical Minerals and Energy sector. We also assist experienced operators in the industry to formalise their skills and knowledge through recognised qualifications and offer refresher modules on relevant topics. Our programs are built around real-world expectations, combining technical knowledge, safety awareness, and workplace readiness.

With extensive industry experience and a strong understanding of Industry Standards, we focus on quality learning reflective of the workforce. We are committed to providing accessible, compliant, and relevant training that supports both employers and learners — especially those in regional and remote communities.

OUR STAFF

PAUL | TRAINER & ASSESSOR

With over 31 years in the Resource Sector, I’m committed to supporting individuals who want to build real capability and stand out in this industry. I’ve worked my way from apprentice electrician to Panel Operator, Shift Coordinator, and industry trainer — so I understand what employers look for and what it takes to succeed on site.

My goal is simple: to help you grow in confidence, competence, and credibility within the Resource Sector. I focus on building practical skills that strengthen your existing knowledge and make you job-ready.

Snapshot of my 31 years in the Resource Sector:

Completed Apprenticeship as an Electrician: built strong technical foundations across industrial and appliance systems.
Early 1990s – Joined BP Refinery: entered the Resource Sector with no prior experience and began refining career.
Progressed to Panel Operator: developed into a highly experienced operator with broad exposure to plant equipment, processes, and operations.
Workplace Trainer – Emergency Management & Fire Safety: took on specialist training responsibilities, supporting workforce capability and site safety.
2015 – Relocated to New Zealand Refining: expanded knowledge through exposure to new systems, operational methods, and refining environments.

· Appointed Shift Coordinator: stepped into leadership, gaining experience in team management, coordination, and the people side of operations.

· 2020 – Co-Founded PKD Training: transitioned into industry training, delivering practical, real-world learning for the Resource Sector.

· Current – Gas Plant Operations: remaining hands-on in industry to maintain current knowledge, skills, and alignment with evolving standards and trends.

KATHY | INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGNER & TRAINER / ASSESSOR

I spent 20 years teaching in primary schools before becoming a registered nurse, specialising in mental health — a role I’ve proudly worked in for the past 8 years and continue in today.

For the past 31 years, I’ve also been the partner of a shift worker in the Resource Sector. Through that journey, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the industry — not just the technical side, but the lifestyle, demands, and realities that come with it.

In 2020, we co-founded PKD Training with a clear goal: to provide practical, relevant education that supports people working in, or wanting to enter, the Resource Sector. Since then, I’ve broadened my knowledge of the industry by partnering with Paul to deliver onsite training across a range of resource environments.

I’m also involved in developing and co-writing training materials that reflect current industry standards and national compliance requirements. Our focus is simple — to provide educational opportunities for the wider community that prepare, confirm, and expand skills and knowledge in the Resource Sector.

I’m especially passionate about making first aid and safety training accessible to rural and remote communities. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build confidence, gain life-saving skills, and open doors to meaningful employment. Check out PKD Health!

When I’m not teaching, training, or nursing, you’ll usually find me reading, learning something new, or spending time with my family.

Emily

LMS & DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT MANAGER

Emily supports PKD Training by managing and optimising the learning management system and digital environment to ensure a seamless and effective training experience. She plays a key role in maintaining system performance, improving user experience, and ensuring digital platforms align with compliance and operational requirements.

Working across both technical and user-facing aspects, Emily brings practical insight into how learners and trainers interact with digital systems. She understands the challenges around accessibility, usability, and engagement, and provides solutions that make training more intuitive and efficient.

Her expertise helps PKD Training deliver learning environments that are not only compliant, but streamlined, scalable, and effective for users across diverse locations and industries.

Geoff

SENIOR TRAINER & MENTOR

Geoff brings over 40 years of hands-on experience across a wide range of roles throughout the resource sector. Over the years, he’s worked in diverse operational and leadership positions, giving him a strong understanding of what companies really need from entry-level employees.

Having worked alongside Paul for 20 years, Geoff supports PKD Training by sharing his industry knowledge through training, assessing, and mentoring. He is passionate about preparing students with the practical skills, industry knowledge, and workplace behaviours that resource companies look for when hiring at the entry level.

Geoff’s mission is simple: to make sure students are job-ready and capable of stepping confidently into roles within the resource sector from day one.

Amy

EDUCATION SPECIALIST

Amy supports PKD Training by contributing to the development of course material through a teacher perspective. She plays a key role in ensuring the quality and compliance of training resources meets real-world application.

Living in a remote rural area, Amy brings valuable first-hand insight into the needs of remote workers. She understands the challenges around access to training, technology, and support services, and provides practical advice to ensure courses remain accessible and relevant for students in regional and remote locations.

Her perspective helps PKD Training deliver programs that are not only compliant, but realistic and achievable for learners working in remote and resource-sector environments.

Erin

OFFICE ASSISTANT

Erin is the newest and youngest member of the PKD Training team, bringing fresh energy and a current perspective to the organisation. She assists with reviewing and maintaining the Learning Management System (LMS), helping to ensure courses remain user-friendly, organised, and up to date.

Erin contributes valuable insight from a younger audience viewpoint, supporting the development and preparation of training resources so they are engaging and accessible for today’s learners. She also manages the ordering and stocking of training materials and supports the team with general office responsibilities.

Her role helps keep day-to-day operations running smoothly while ensuring training resources remain relevant and well prepared for delivery.