13 trainees and apprentices from the Western Downs will kick off their careers within Queensland’s gas sector as part of a successful apprenticeship and trainee program.

Resources Minister Scott Stewart visited Shell QGC’s Chinchilla training centre today to welcome the trainees and apprentices to their new role.

“I am proud to be here today, supporting Shell QGC’s newest trainees and apprentices as they embark on a career in the resources industry,” Minister Stewart said.

“It is an exciting time to join the resources industry which has been so important in Queensland’s economic recovery from the global COVID-19 pandemic.”

“And not only that but they’re able to receive this training, experience and mentoring whilst remaining in their local communities,” he said.

“There are more than 68,000 resource workers across our state and this highly skilled workforce helps our state generate about $48 billion in resources exports each year.”

“The petroleum and gas industry continues to be a major contributor to this region’s economy, and I know that Shell QGC is proud to be a part of that, helping this region grow and prosper.”

Along with the new recruits, nine program graduates have completed their training and now continue to work and live in the region.

Shell QGC Vice President Godson Njoku said QGC’s pathways program, now in its fourth year, was part of the business’ ongoing commitment to create local jobs and a diverse local economy.

“Including the 13 new apprentices and trainees who have joined us here this morning, the QGC Pathways Program has helped close to 50 locals to get their foot in the door,” Mr Njoku said.

“Today we’re also celebrating nine program graduates who have finished their training, meaning they’ve obtained a nationally recognised qualification while continuing to live in the region and be part of their home community.”

Minister Stewart said the program has a strong focus on diversity and recruiting locally with three women and eight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people part of this year’s intake.

“I know how difficult it can be to keep our kids in our regions while earning a living,” he said.

“This program will ensure young people from the Western Downs remain a core part of the industry with flow-on benefits for the local community.”

The next intake for the QGC Pathways Program is set to begin in August 2021.