EXXON Mobil Chemical's Fife Ethylene Plant (FEP) has launched its annual apprenticeship recruitment programme to coincide with Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2018.

The firm, based at Mossmorran, has a long history of developing its own workforce through the apprenticeship scheme with over 220 people completing apprenticeships since these were first introduced at the plant in the mid-1980s.

This year’s scheme offers four-year engineering Modern Apprenticeships based in the company’s maintenance department. Up to three apprentices are being sought this year.

Sonia Bingham, FEP plant manager, said: “The company prides itself on having the best staff in each role and our apprenticeship programme has been a hugely successful way to develop this.

"Making the transition from education to the workplace in a step-by-step manner means our apprentices have the chance to learn and grow into their roles.

“As a major employer in the Cowdenbeath area for more than 30 years, we are committed to ongoing investment in our workforce and our apprenticeship scheme is an example of our track record in this. About a third of our employees joined the company through the apprenticeship programme and a high proportion of them join us and enjoy the rest of their career at the plant.”

School pupils and college students with four National Five passes that include English, maths and physics, are invited to apply to join ExxonMobil Chemical’s apprenticeship recruitment programme.

Zoe Smith is in the third year of a machinery modern apprenticeship at FEP. The 20-year-old learned about the opportunities with the company at a careers event.

Her apprenticeship sees Zoe splitting her time between attending classes at Fife College, in Rosyth, and working at FEP.

She said: “It has been really good being able to put what I learn into practical use.

"My favourite part of the job is rebuilding pumps and turbines. Rather than just sitting in the classroom, I have the opportunity to get hands-on experience.”

Zoe had been interested in taking an apprenticeship after watching her dad work as an engineer.

“For people going to college, it is definitely worth your while to look into an apprenticeship,” she said.

“At ExxonMobil there is always someone there to help if there is an area you are unsure about and the opportunity to be paid while you learn is a great incentive.”

ExxonMobil’s FEP has attracted apprentices from both Beath and Lochgelly High Schools over the years and is one of Europe's largest and most modern ethylene plants.

Around 150 employees and 50 core contractors work at the plant, with more than 73% living within six miles of the plant.

Further information on ExxonMobil FEP’s annual apprenticeship recruitment programme can be found at http://careers.exxonmobil.com