06 March 2023
A fresh group of 41 new apprentices have commenced their apprenticeships with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BHP) at its operations in the Bowen Basin.
Excited to embark on their mining careers, this year’s intake is a diverse group spanning school leavers through to mature apprentices, hailing from communities where we operate and across Central, North and Far East Queensland.
For the third consecutive year, there are more female apprentices which represent 64 per cent of the intake while 29 percent of the group are Indigenous.
BMA Apprentice Coordinator Kelly Appleton has been assisting with the coordination of the apprentice program for the past 12 years and said welcoming the next generation of apprentices is always an exciting time for the business.
“Each year we greet a unique group of smiling faces, all with their own story to tell and wanting to pave their future in the resources industry. It truly is a proud moment seeing our apprentices enter the workforce, complete their apprenticeships, and enjoy long and rewarding careers at BMA,” Kelly said.
The 2023 apprentices will specialise in a range of trades including Electricians, Mechanics, Diesel Fitters, Auto-Electricians and Boilermakers and will complete their apprenticeships across various BMA sites in the Bowen Basin.
Venna Baggow is one of this year’s 41 apprentices and has started at Peak Downs Mine where she will specialise in electrical.
“It’s super inspiring to be a first-year female apprentice, because I feel like younger generations of females can look up to it and see the opportunity that they can have in the industry.”
“I’m glad to be a part of the industry as it goes through this change, and I’m looking forward to gaining knowledge, making new friends, and learning life skills on site in the years ahead,” said Venna.
Prior to starting their practical work experience at site, the apprentices completed a Work Readiness Program at Emerald TAFE which helps prepare them for site and understand the importance of safety.
BMA has a long history of investing in skills and training, and is committed to creating pathways and employment opportunities for the next generation of miners.
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