Six months ago we welcomed our largest cohort of apprentices to BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) – made up of over 60 budding electricians, mechanics, diesel fitters, auto-electricians and boilermakers.

The 2021 BMA Apprenticeship Program attracted a diverse group with backgrounds ranging from school leavers, parents, to medical students looking for a career change.

With recruitment recently launching for the 2022 Program, we thought it timely to check in with the class of ‘21 to see how they’re getting on.

Last year, Jayda Flynn, Apprentice Auto-Electrician at Goonyella Riverside Mine, was looking for a change after three years studying medical engineering and biological science:

“I made it through three years of my five-year degree and decided I couldn’t handle sitting behind a desk for another two years.

“I absolutely love the apprenticeship. The technology and the infrastructure that we're exposed to, within the first days of being on site, just blew my mind. Everything's bigger and better!

“I'm so glad I took this opportunity, because it has honestly changed my life so much already, and we're only so early in,” said Jayda.

For Rory Minty, Apprentice Diesel Fitter at Saraji Mine, the biggest shift has come with the move to Dysart and the dynamic learning journey:

“I relocated to Dysart for my apprenticeship and I’m surprised by how much I’m enjoying it up here and how friendly everyone is. It has a great community feel and I’ve kept in touch with the other people from the ‘21 intake – we’re tight knit and get along really well.

“I like figuring things out mechanically and physically so much more than doing paperwork. It amazes me how much I’m learning every day and how every day is different.

“If I’ve had a challenging task or job, I’ll get home I’ll ring my dad and tell him what I’ve learned and talk it through. Going through it with someone really helps me figure it out and keep it in my head,” said Rory.

When asked if they would recommend BHP as a place to work, Jayda had this to say:

“With applications open, I've already sent it to two of my brothers and brother-in-laws to get on the bandwagon. I honestly can't recommend BMA enough and want more people involved so they can experience what I have.”

The 2022 Apprenticeship Program includes opportunities at BMA Queensland and BHP New South Wales Operations. Apprenticeships are residential positions and may include auto-electrical, electrical, diesel fitting, mechanical fitting, boilermaking, refrigeration mechanic and communications technician. Why not you? Apply today – BHP.com/careers.