Twenty-five apprentices have graduated from the Muswellbrook Mining and Energy Skills Program, with this year’s ceremony also marking two decades of collaboration between TAFE NSW and the regional mining industry.
The 17-week program equips apprentices with practical skills across fitting and machining, metal fabrication and electrical trades, alongside training in safety, financial literacy and everyday life skills. This year’s cohort included nine women, reflecting growing diversity across the sector.
Mechanical fitter apprentice Ella Bridge received the major achievement award at last week’s graduation. Ella is a first-year apprentice with AGL Macquarie, based at Bayswater Power Station, and said the program had given her a strong foundation in the industry.
“I was inspired into this career by family members doing similar jobs. As a first-year apprentice, this program was a good start. It gave me a better understanding of the work environment and of the roles of people around me,” she said.
“We learned a lot about the tools used in industry, including measuring, cutting and calculating drilling speeds. We also developed skills using lathes to machine parts and learned how to identify hazards and reduce risks.”
Ella said the experience had boosted her confidence on the job and reinforced her commitment to the industry.
“These were all valuable skills that will continue to help us throughout our apprenticeships and future careers,” she said.
TAFE NSW Engineering Head Teacher Christopher Orlowski praised the graduating class for their dedication throughout the program.
“These students represented the organisations they work for and TAFE NSW Muswellbrook with pride. Seeing these young people, the next generation, work through the program shows me the future of this industry is in very capable hands,” he said.
Graduates came from a range of regional employers including AGL Macquarie, BHP Mt Arthur, Bengalla Mining, Hitachi, Yancoal Mt Thorley Warkworth, Port Waratah Coal Services and Group Training Organisations Programmed and Migas.
