OUYEN resident Ben Nihill is the newest member to join the team at Poole and Jackson.
Last week Ben started his apprenticeship with the Speed business, which will have him working in the service department, completing Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology.
The 17-year-old is looking forward to the experience and is keen to get his hands dirty.
“I’m pretty excited,” he said.
“I don’t like sitting in a classroom.”
Ben has always had a knack for fixing things.
As soon as he was old enough, he began contacting local farmers to ask whether he could help out during their busy periods.
“I’ve always helped out on local farms during harvest and hay season,” Ben said.
“I really enjoy fixing things when they break down.”
During his spare time, Ben enjoys riding his motorbike and playing football and cricket for Ouyen.
While he initially thought he might like a career as a boilermaker, Ben jumped at the Poole and Jackson opportunity when he saw it advertised.
He spent two weeks completing a trial at Poole and Jackson during his school holidays, before he was offered a full-time role.
“This opportunity came up and I realised I really liked it,” Ben said.
“I’m looking forward to learning new skills.”
On graduating from his apprenticeship, Ben will be fully qualified to perform mechanical work on agricultural vehicles and equipment.
Poole and Jackson owners Scott and Meredith Rowney said they were committed to providing local employment opportunities.
“We’re very focused on the local community and are eager to train anyone who has a desire to work with us,” Ms Rowney said.
