There are five trades on offer across nine Hastings Deering workshops including Mt Isa, Brisbane, Toowoomba, Mackay, Rockhampton, Townsville, Cairns, Darwin and Alice Springs.

Apprenticeships are for four years with the ability to complete earlier: all apprentices receive a nationally recognised qualification.

Older applicants are eligible to apply with 18 of this year's cohort of 40 considered mature age including Rockhampton's Warren Kaerger aged 46.

The 2021 group also include seven females who made up 17 percent of the intake with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders accounting for 10 percent: both these sectors are up on 2020 figures

Hastings Deering's general manager-people and culture Vincent Cosgrove said Hastings Deering applications continued to be highly sought after with record numbers year after year.

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"The equipment we stand for powers the world," Mr Cosgrove said.

"Big companies, big economies and big goals that come with big challenges and responsibilities. Our apprentices have many career pathways: from mining and construction machinery to marine engines - Cat machines are diverse in mechanics as in size.

"Our operations run across a gamut of industries and we have many apprentices who have become trades people and created career paths in workshops, field service, sales and management."

In 2021 Hastings Deering received a record 2695 applications for 40 positions and to create a more personal experience for applicants this year Hastings Deering has developed an App.

A virtual reality filter built for Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook where would-be apprentices can see what they would look like as a Hastings Deering apprentice in the high vis, safety goggles, ear plugs, and gloves.

The concept is designed to allow potential apprentice applicants to 'see themselves as a HD apprentice' no matter what their age, location, cultural background or gender.

"Our recruitment process is very extensive with all applicants considered," Mr Cosgrove said.

"The initial application is made online with online aptitude testing and engagement centre with short conversation style interviews and apparatus testing.

"This year we had a couple of apprentices who had previously applied and were not successful but were successful this year.

"For students who are still at school with an eye on a career in the resources sector, our advice is to take advantage of opportunities through the Queensland Resources Council and their Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy program and school-based training opportunities.

"Applicants should also be sure to share what life experiences they have and if they are a school leaver include their extra-curricular activities, whether that is sports or helping out a local charity. All of these things talk to us about your skills: holding down a part time job while at school shows you can multi-task and even being in a charity fun run shows community spirit - attributes all important for future employees."

Applications close May 30 and candidates can also learn more about apprenticeship opportunities, access the FAQ's and top tips on applying by visiting the company's website.

Mr Cosgrove offered five tips for making sure your application stands out:

1. Include an up to date resume outlining any work experience, part-time work, volunteering, hobbies etc.

2. Include a short cover letter telling us why you are passionate about the apprenticeship you are applying for and how your extra-curricular activities demonstrate this.

3. Find out as much as you can about Hastings Deering and the apprenticeship and use this knowledge to tailor your application to your own experience.

4. Make sure your resume and cover letter are formatted well and have been proof read and are free of grammar and spelling mistakes

5. Take your time and thoroughly complete all questions and attach all requested documents.

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