Mechanics (Diesel, Heavy & Light Plant)
Dan
Role: Diesel Fitter Apprentice
Company: Anglo Coal
Describe your job. What sort of things do you do?
My job involves the maintenance of all the mobile equipment at the mine. This includes the servicing and rebuilding of trucks, dozers, graders, excavators, cranes and loaders.
What advice would you give to someone considering a similar career?
Make sure you are mechanically minded, it is very important that you enjoy your job. In the minerals industry it is beneficial to be fit and healthy. Stay keen and positive when looking for an apprenticeship.
How did you get to where you are now from Year 10?
After Year 10, I decided to complete Year 11 and 12 to further my education. During this time I completed work experience in cabinet making, machining and finally diesel fitting. I enjoyed the diesel fitting the most. I applied for a diesel fitting apprenticeship at the mine and was lucky enough to get one. It was very competitive in my area to get an apprenticeship at the time. There are more available these days because the minerals industry is booming and there’s a shortage of trades people.
How long have you been an apprentice?
I’m in my fourth year now so I will finish my apprenticeship at the end of this year.
What does your apprenticeship involve?
I work here on site at the mine but I also go to Rockhampton TAFE for blocks of training of 4 — 6 weeks. I am actually apprenticed to the Callide Dawson Group here in Biloela. The Group is part of Gladstone Area Group Apprentices Ltd, which is the largest employer of trainees and apprentices in Central Queensland. It pays my salary and staff visit me on site to ensure that all is going well. The Callide Dawson Groups also looks after my superannuation payments, leave entitlements, workers compensation and training costs and also ensure that I have the tools I need for the job. If I have any concerns there are people within the Group who I can go to for advice and support.
