Interview with Apprentice Nathan Swinbourne (2020)

In this interview we chat with Nathan Swinbourne, a 17-year old apprentice training at WesTrac Mt Thorley (2020).

MEET NATHAN

What did you do before becoming a WesTrac apprentice?

"I was completing Year 11 at Scone High School. I've always wanted to work for WesTrac, so when the time came and I was old enough to apply for an apprenticeship, I waited for their program to open up and applied immediately."


What are you most looking forward to?

"There are so many facets to the business. I'm looking forward to working in all the different areas and learning how all the pieces fit together. Every day I'm learning something new and expanding my knowledge of Cat equipment. It just feels great to work for a company as respected in this industry as WesTrac."


What has been the best part of the program so far?

"For me, it has to be learning and understanding how underground mining equipment works."

What has been the most challenging part of the program so far?

"There has been a lot of information to take in and it's sometimes hard to remember every little detail about all the different types of Cat equipment. However, with exposure and experience, it's getting easier every day."


What is the environment and atmosphere like at WesTrac?

"In a word - great. The people are really easy to get along with and everyone I've interacted with seems to genuinely want to teach us (the apprentices) as much as possible. Even though there are hundreds of people, it still feels like one big team."


What are the best perks about being a WesTrac apprentice?

"We all get to learn a valuable trade that'll turn into a long career. With the WesTrac apprentice program, there is no mucking about, you get straight into it and onto the tools right away, doing things with your hands. It's also been great to visit the NSW WesTrac Institute, as it's a modern facility with professional teachers who know what they are talking about. I wear the WesTrac uniform proudly and it's nice to be able to tell people I work for WesTrac."


If you could give one piece of advice to future apprentices, what would it be?

"Stop thinking about it and just apply, you won't be disappointed. Don't be afraid to get in there and have a go. Don't be scared to ask questions. If you are ever unsure of anything, just ask and you'll find everyone is more than happy to help you out."


Apprenticeship Program

Closed

Both the NSW and WA Apprenticeship Program intakes are currently closed. NSW is opening May 1st 2024.

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