Warren’s young people are being given the chance to kickstart their careers without having to pack up and leave town.

Thanks to Warren Shire Council’s latest round of traineeships, school leavers and those looking for a fresh start can get their foot in the door and gain real-world experience, all while staying close to home.

For 16-year-old Alex Bailey, it’s been a game changer.

He’s now working toward a Heavy Vehicle Motor Mechanic trade through a four-year apprenticeship, getting hands-on in the Council workshop under the guidance of local supervisor Jason Boyd.

“I’ve always liked working with my hands and learning how machines work,” said Alex.

“Getting to do that every day while learning a trade and earning a wage is the perfect start for me.”

Katrina Treanor with Economic Development Manager Susan Balogh and fellow trainees Alex Bailey and Jason Boyd. [IMAGE: Warren Shire Council]

Young mum Katrina Treanor has also joined the program, building her confidence and skills through a traineeship at the Warren Visitor Information Centre.

After moving back to Warren to be closer to family, she said the opportunity couldn’t have come at a better time.

“Being out of the workforce for four years really did limit me trying to get back in,” Katrina said.

“This being a traineeship, it was just a nice way to re-enter, build on skills and gain new ones.

"It’s been great and given me a lot more options career-wise than I previously had.”

Katrina said the role has been a lifeline as she balances work and family life.

“It’s a great way to get back in the working and be flexible with the kids,” she said. “Being able to learn on the job is one of a kind.”

“If you put in the work, it can open so many doorways.”

With two more traineeships now open, a Trainee Administration Officer and a Trainee Plant Operator, there’s fresh hope for locals who want to take charge of their careers without sacrificing their connection to family and community.

In a town like Warren, it’s no secret that many young people feel the pull of bigger cities when it comes to work and study.

Programs like this are starting to shift that narrative, showing there’s more than one way to build a future.

“These positions do far more than fill a vacancy,” said Susie Balogh, Council’s Economic Development and Visitation Manager who oversees the program.

“They provide our local trainees with meaningful, hands-on experience, career pathways, and the chance to build their future without needing to leave the community they love."

Susie Balogh (right) is busy promoting the opportunities available. She is pictured with Sue Harvey. [IMAGE: Warren View Club]

“In a rural town like ours, these kinds of opportunities can be truly life-changing," says Ms Balogh.

"By growing our own talent and building skills from the ground up, we’re strengthening not just individual career prospects but also the long-term resilience of Warren.”

She added that Council has applied for two more apprentice positions under round three of the program, with hopes of creating even more local pathways into lasting employment.

These aren’t just jobs, they’re stepping stones.

They’re proof that staying local doesn’t have to mean putting your ambitions on hold.

For some, it could mean the chance to grow their skills, earn a living, and put down roots without giving up the community that raised them.

Locals can learn more about current traineeship opportunities click visit the Warren Shire Council website by clicking: Employment.