GLADSTONE Ports Corporation has, over the past week, welcomed its 21 new apprentices and trainees – specifically 12 apprentices, four trainees and five work experience students.

They all took the first steps into their careers at the Port of Gladstone after accepting an invitation into the highly sought-after program.

The successful participants will engage in a variety of disciplines such as electrical, diesel fitting, mechanical and horticulture.

GPC acting CEO Craig Walker officially welcomed the new starters asking them to stay safe, take every opportunity and most importantly to “enjoy their time as part of the GPC family”.

“We saw more than 700 applications for the program this year, which reflects a continued strong interest in trades training here at GPC,” Mr Walker said.

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“The apprentices and trainees have been given an invaluable opportunity to learn their chosen trade under the guidance of our skilled supervisors and mentors.

“We are all keen to see them succeed in their chosen trade and it has been fantastic to hear that some are already planning their next level of study, looking to branch out into university or other tertiary studies.”

The new starters have hit the ground running, with an intensive program that includes exposure to scheduled port area rotations, performance setting and appraisals, and a priority focus on safety in the workplace.

The apprentices and trainees will spend up to four years at GPC, learning their chosen trade.