The first group of Engineering Apprentices working on Anglo American’s Woodsmith Project have all secured full-time roles after successfully graduating their four-year course.

Their achievements were celebrated at a special graduation ceremony this week.

CEO of Anglo American’s Crop Nutrients business Tom McCulley said: “It was an honour to present the Engineering Apprentices with their certificates, these young people are the future of the Woodsmith Project and we’re pleased they’re all going to be staying with us beyond their apprenticeship to develop their careers further.”

“I’m impressed with the dedication and teamwork they exhibited over the last four years and even in the face of challenges including Covid, they never wavered.”

The company has now recruited 37 apprentices as part of its commitment to hire and develop a local workforce, with the vast majority of these coming from the local area.

One of the 13 apprentices who graduated is Megan Neale, from Redcar. She said: “I’ve learned so much on my apprenticeship and I can’t wait to apply that in my new role. I’m incredibly happy to be given the opportunity to keep working on the Woodsmith Project and continue my development.”

Early Talent Specialist, Katie Castleton, added: “It’s been great to watch this group grow and develop over the course of the last four years. It’s testament to their drive, enthusiasm and professionalism that they’re all moving into roles on the project.”

There are over 1,600 people currently working on the Woodsmith Project, which includes over 1,000 people from the local area. Anglo American’s longer-term aim is that at least 80% of the operational workforce is sourced from the local community.

To find out more about careers on the Woodsmith Project, visit https://uk.angloamerican.com/careers