OREANDA-NEWS. Bengalla mine and training partner MIGAS kicked off their annual apprenticeship drive this week, with electrical and mechanical trades on offer for 2016.

The four-year programme includes hands-on experience at the open cut coal mine and a technical study period at Hunter Institute Muswellbrook Mining Industry Skills Centre.

First year electrical apprentice Shae Pemberton recently won an Outstanding Achievement award at the NSW TAFE Mining Skills presentation and encourages others to apply for the opportunities on offer.

Ms Pemberton said “For people thinking about applying for an apprenticeship, I say go for it. If you’re interested and willing to work hard, it’s a great opportunity for anyone.

“I wanted to pursue a career in trades because it could teach me skills that would stay with me for a lifetime.

“I’m in my first year of my apprenticeship and learn a new thing every day. I’ve already been taught many different trades, not just my own, and one of the best aspects of the apprenticeship is being able to meet new people with the same interests as me.

“I hope I can continue to work hard and achieve a full-time role as a tradesperson after finishing my apprenticeship.”

Bengalla general manager, Operations, Jo-Anne Scarini said “We are looking for self-motivated team players to fill the four available apprenticeship spots and start their careers in mining with us at Bengalla.

“The programme offers apprentices the opportunity to work in a safe environment with experienced tradespeople across a broad range of electrical and plant mechanic functions.

“We provide ongoing coaching, mentoring and support from both MIGAS and Bengalla as the apprentices work to obtain a nationally recognised qualification.

“The programme gives apprentices a great start in the mining industry and allows Bengalla to tap into a pool of talented workers and help build capacity in the Hunter Valley.”

The apprentices will be employed through group training employer MIGAS and will join 12 other apprentices at Bengalla.

MIGAS Field Officer and apprenticeship coordinator Angela Gardner said “MIGAS is proud to continue our support of Bengalla in the training and development of apprentices in regional areas of New South Wales.

“We share the common goal of creating a skilled workforce for the future, and are committed in providing a safe working environment.

“We expect a large response for these highly sought-after roles, so get your application in quickly and make sure it stands out amongst the crowd.”