Local apprentice on the boat to success

Kyle Cooper is only three months into his Engineering Apprenticeship and already has passed his probation period with flying colours, much earlier than the normal duration of six months.

Kyle’s supervisor Steve Patridge said they were so impressed with Kyle already and that he was a great fit to the Birdon team

“He has the right attitude, is a good listener and a quick learner. I usually only need to show him something once,” Mr Partridge said.

Mr Partridge who has been with Birdon for the past eight years, will work directly with Kyle for his first year.

“After that he may move into different facets of the business. At the moment we are building parts for boats and Kyle is learning how to weld,” he said.

After finishing his schooling, Kyle was keen to find himself a career and approached ETC for help with an apprenticeship.

“This was the first one I applied for and I got it straight away. I was pretty lucky,” said Kyle.

“I was stoked when I found out I got the job. I couldn’t stop smiling. My family and friends were ecstatic for me too.”

Kyle said he felt accepted straight away when he joined the Birdon team.

“The team here is great, always happy and laughing,” he said.

“I’m keen to finish my apprenticeship with Birdon and become a full time boiler maker.”

According to Birdon Quality, Environmental & Safety Manager Stephen Prohm, Kyle had impressed on all fronts.

“From the interview, to his work trial and to now. Kyle certainly has a bright future ahead of him,” Mr Prohm said.

“He is a great success story for Birdon already. We pride ourselves in giving opportunities for local youth who want a successful career.”

Mr Prohm said time was at a premium for the company so they utilised local Transition to Work (TtW) provider ETC to help with their recruitment needs.

“ETC respected our time and have been easy to work with,” he said.

“They found an appropriate candidate who met the requirements we set. The paperwork was not too onerous and we’ve commenced a great partnership.”

Kyle also thanked ETC for helping him with his resume and finding his apprenticeship.

“ETC was really good to me. They’re a real friendly bunch and its great fun there,” Kyle said.

Birdon is a diversified marine engineering group with four main divisions: Marine, Engineering, Dredging & Disposals. More information can be found at www.birdon.com.au or Facebook.

ETC provides employment, business and training services in the Hastings. If you need help finding a job, are looking for staff or are interested in up-skilling, contact ETC on 1800 007 400 or visit www.etcltd.com.au.