NORTH Queensland youths have been given the opportunity to continue to work and live in their smaller rural towns with Wilmar Sugar taking on 32 apprentices.
The new recruits started at Wilmar's mill sites this week after undertaking two weeks of safety training in the Burdekin.
Fourteen of the new apprentices will be based in the Burdekin region, seven in the Herbert, three at Proserpine Mill and eight at Plane Creek Mill near Sarina.
They’ll join more than 100 apprentices already in training with the company.
Last year, 35 apprentices were involved in the program which was significantly higher than in previous years, with demand for electricians driving the increase.
Training Superintendent Scott Young said the budding electricians, fitter and turners, diesel fitters, boilermakers and instrumentation fitter would have the benefit of learning their trades in both workshop and factory environments.
“An apprenticeship with Wilmar means you’ll be properly trained in safe work practices, be involved in multi-million dollar projects, and get to work closely with other trade disciplines to achieve results,” Mr Young said.
“Safety is the number one priority at Wilmar, and we’re proud to be able to provide our apprentices with lifelong safety skills from the very start of their careers.
“Wilmar is committed to keeping jobs local. We’re proud of the training opportunities we’re able to provide to young people in our sugar milling regions each year.”