Mai-Wel Enterprises Reaches Milestone in SIM Card Recycling Project
In March 2025, a team of seven participants from the Mai-Wel Academy demonstrated the skills, interest, and positive attitude required to transition into the workforce as Operations Assistants within Mai-Wel Business Services.
About the SIM Card Recycling Project
The role involves a structured six-step process requiring a range of capabilities, including fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, stamina and endurance, planning and organisation, numeracy, teamwork, communication, the ability to follow directions, and maintaining focus on tasks.
This dedicated team consists of Jack, Joshua, Andrew, Noah, Hunter, Jason, and Grace. Their involvement in this contract is building a strong foundation of transferable skills while increasing confidence as they prepare for future employment opportunities.
Catherine Crowley, Lead Support Worker, Mai-Wel Academy said, “The scale of this project is significant, and the team has approached it with real focus and commitment. It is meaningful work that makes a difference, and that comes through in how participants show up every day.”
The team has recently achieved approximately 75% completion of the contract, a significant milestone that reflects their consistency and commitment. This builds on their earlier 25% milestone, which was celebrated with a team pizza event.
Throughout the project, the team has also been supported by the broader Business Services team during peak periods, while additional Mai-Wel Academy participants have contributed through work experience opportunities, gaining valuable exposure to real work environments.
This represents a strong start to 2026, with a continued focus on increasing productivity, building capability, and achieving further milestones.
Congratulations to the SIM Card Recycling Team, keep up the great work!
Project Progress and Next Steps
With 1.6 million SIM cards processed, the team is now focused on completing the remaining volume while maintaining quality and productivity.
Alongside contract delivery, there is a strong focus on identifying and developing vocational pathway opportunities aligned to sustainable work practices.
This builds on the practical skills participants have developed throughout the project, such as task sequencing, quality control, stamina, teamwork, and working within structured production environments, and supports their transition into broader employment opportunities.
Working With Mai-Wel
Louise Fernie, Business Development and Partnerships Specialist, said that this project is a strong example of what Mai-Wel Enterprises can deliver.
“We have the workforce and the systems to take on complex, high-volume work reliably, and we welcome conversations with organisations who have similar needs,” she continued.
Mai-Wel Enterprises is actively exploring additional high-volume, process-driven work opportunities that align with this capability, ensuring continuity of employment and ongoing skill development for participants.
