Operator Kinetic has launched a new cadetship program aimed at developing the next generation of leaders across the bus and public transport sector.
The initiative will welcome its first intake of cadets in 2026 across Australia and New Zealand, offering structured training, operational experience and mentoring designed to build future transport professionals.
Participants will rotate through key areas of the business, including operations, planning and leadership functions, allowing them to develop practical capability and a deeper understanding of how large-scale public transport networks operate.
Cadets will also receive targeted training and dedicated mentorship, with the program designed to provide a pathway into permanent leadership roles once the program is completed.
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Kinetic CEO Michael Sewards says the program reflects the company’s commitment to developing talent internally and strengthening long-term capability across the transport industry.
“We’re creating clear career pathways that give motivated individuals the skills, confidence and operational knowledge to become our future leaders,” he says.
“This is about developing talent the Kinetic way with real experience across every part of our operation.”
In Australia, two cadet positions will be offered, including a planning role on the Gold Coast and an operations leadership pathway based in Melbourne.
The inaugural intake will also place a strong emphasis on improving gender diversity in the transport sector.
Kinetic executive general manager people and safety Australia Madonna Hegerty says the program has been designed to help address the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles across the industry.
“Women remain underrepresented in leadership roles across the transport industry, and we’re determined to change that,” she says.
“This program gives women the opportunity to develop the skills and experience they need to step into senior operational roles.”
In New Zealand, two cadet positions will also be available, offering placements across Kinetic’s urban and regional operations with a focus on operational leadership development.
Director of people, culture and safety New Zealand Nicky Harrison says the program is intended to strengthen leadership capability across the company’s New Zealand operations.
“This program is about building our future leaders here in New Zealand,” Harrison says.
“By providing structured development and real operational experience, we’re creating clear pathways for talented people to step into leadership roles across our New Zealand operations.”
The program forms part of Kinetic’s broader workforce development strategy as the bus industry faces increasing demand for skilled operational leaders, particularly as networks expand and fleets transition to new technologies.
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