11 May 2016

Whitehaven wins major apprenticeship and training awards

Whitehaven Coal’s apprenticeship and trainee scheme won two major awards at this year’s HVTC’s Excellence Awards presentation in Newcastle.

Aron Cane, Statutory Electrical Engineer with Whitehaven Coal, accepted the 2016 HVTC Large Host Employer Award (> 40 employees), while Whitehaven colleague Joel McKenty, Group Training & Safety Superintendent, accepted the 2016 HVTC Host Safety Award.

The awards recognise Whitehaven Coal’s outstanding contribution to the ongoing training and development of its apprentices and trainees and its rigorous commitment to the safety, health and wellbeing of its employees.

Special guest at the awards was Minister for Regional Development, Skills and Small Business John Barilaro.

“HVTC has been a big part of our apprenticeship program providing assistance with the administration, support and guidance of our trainees and we appreciate HVTC’s recognition of our contribution to the future of our workforce,” said Aron.

“Having an apprenticeship isn’t just about learning and developing skills through training and mentoring. It’s the stepping stone to a fantastic career that can take you anywhere. Together with HVTC, Whitehaven Coal’s apprenticeship program has been producing high calibre tradespeople. It’s a great privilege that our two companies have forged such a strong alliance in the development of tomorrow’s leaders.”

Since 2011, Whitehaven Coal has hosted 25 HVTC apprentices. Fourteen apprentices are currently hosted with the company and its comprehensive safety management system has instilled all HVTC employees with a strong understanding of the importance of safety in the workplace.

“The HVTC Excellence Awards are a great opportunity to recognise the outstanding efforts of the company’s apprentices and trainees, and on behalf of the NSW Government I congratulate Whitehaven Coal as well as the other award winners on their achievements,” Mr Barilaro said.

HVTC CEO Sharon Smith says vocational education pathways can lead to career success for many young people.

“These awards not only celebrate the great results of our apprentices and trainees but they also reflect the significant role our business and industry partners play in making sure our young people secure quality employment outcomes,” Ms Smith said.

“Our judges’ expertise and understanding of our business, and our goals and objectives for our apprentices, trainees and host businesses, has been reflected in the outstanding calibre of this year’s award recipients.”

HVTC is a not for profit company offering apprenticeships, traineeships and employment services. It is headquartered at its multi-million dollar Skills Centre near Newcastle. HVTC is Australia’s oldest Group Training Organisation and on 18 June 2016 the company will celebrate its 35th anniversary. Since its establishment HVTC has provided employment and training opportunities for more than 20,000 people across the state.

Pictured:

(L-R) Aron Cane, Statutory Electrical Engineer, Whitehaven Coal, Paul Briscoe, Field Officer, HVTC North West, Joel McKenty, Group Training & Safety Superintendent, Whitehaven Coal and Janet Lee, Manager Human Resources and Safety Services, HVTC.

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