This month, BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) welcomed 41 new apprentices to the business.

The apprentices from Moranbah, Dysart, Greater Mackay, and Central and Northern Queensland, gathered at the Coalfields Training Excellence Centre or the ‘Big Blue Shed’ in Moranbah and were welcomed by BMA General Managers Mike Fidel, Broadmeadow Mine, and Mark Eaglesham, Goonyella Riverside Mine.

Also in attendance to help welcome our new recruits was Isaac Regional Council Mayor, Anne Baker.

The apprentices have spent the last four weeks at the training centre to complete the Work Readiness Program, before venturing off to start their apprenticeships at Hay Point Coal Terminal, Blackwater, Saraji, Peak Downs, Broadmeadow and Goonyella Riverside.

The apprenticeships have been offered across a range of trades, including Electricians, Mechanics, Diesel Fitters, Auto-Electricians, Refrigeration Mechanics and Boilermakers.

Broadmeadow General Manager, Mike Fidel, said welcoming new apprentices to the business is something that’s really worth celebrating.

“It was fantastic to see so many apprentices joining the business this year and I was especially proud to meet the new apprentices joining our team at Broadmeadow,” Mike said.

Mark Eaglesham, General Manager Goonyella Riverside, also wanted to recognise the strong intake for 2019.

“We are so proud that 41 individuals have chosen BMA to introduce them to the mining industry and we look forward to supporting their learning for the next four years.”

Our newcomers at the Welcome Event on Friday 22 February, were offered some insights and words of advice from Saraji Apprentice, Kaytlan Mills.

“It wasn't so long ago that I was I sitting in the Big Blue Shed getting ready to finish the Work Readiness Program and start my apprenticeship at Saraji Mine,” Kaytlan said.

"I actually started my first career as a dental assistant but after watching the technicians working on our dental chairs I was inspired to completely change my career path and take up an apprenticeship with BMA."

“While it was a big change, to me, it wasn’t just a job, it was the beginning of a learning experience unlike any other I had undertaken before.

"It's given me the opportunity to learn the skills and gain the relevant experience for my electrical trade.”