AGL Loy Yang’s new apprentices say ‘bring it on’

AGL Loy Yang has welcomed four new apprentices this year, with three women amongst the new recruits.

With hard hats in hand and steel-capped boots in tow, the new apprentices are ready to go and were selected from a pool of more than 500.

AGL’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive Sponsor of AGL Equality, Markus Brokhof said it was great to welcome new recruits to Loy Yang.

“I am always proud to see the next generation of young AGL employees get started and have the opportunity to build a rewarding career in this dynamic and changing industry,” Mr Brokhof said.

“This year, across our coal generation sites, we are also seeing more women choose to take on a trade in energy.

“At AGL we are committed to improving equality across the business and I hope to see more women come through our apprenticeship program in the years to come.

“We value diversity and inclusion and are on the lookout for new talent across all walks of life.

“No matter their gender or background, each and every apprentice at AGL is given the opportunity to learn and develop the skills needed to foster successful careers.”

Boiler-making, electrical and mechanical are just a handful of the specialty areas apprentices are undertaking this year.

AGL mechanical apprentice, Kate Kesper said she is proud to be an apprentice at AGL and celebrate her new chosen career.

“It was great to arrive on site, meet the other apprentices who had earnt a spot on the program and see that many were women. We are breaking down barriers and showing the capability we can bring to these trades.

“To anyone who asks how I feel about the role I say, ‘bring it on’, I know I can do the job,” Kate Kesper said.

AGL electrical apprentice, Siobhan Kinman said she found her calling in power after careers in retail, hospitality and administration.

“I’ve always been interested in power and I’m fascinated by the process of conversion and production,” Siobhan Kinman said.

“I decided to look at apprenticeships with AGL because the company resonates with my own values. I made the decision to join AGL after talking with other people in my community and hearing how AGL cares for its employees.

“I really do believe, AGL is the place to be.”

AGL apprenticeships range from 4-5 years, providing a toolbox of skills for budding apprentices.