The apprentice intake includes locals from communities near Moranbah, Dysart, Greater Mackay, Blackwater, Emerald, and Central and Northern QLD.

BHP said the group had completed a work readiness program at TAFE before being sent to mines in the region.

The TAFE course taught them the basics and importance of safety onsite.

Apprentice Toni Gadd was deployed to the Saraji Mine as a first-year diesel fitter.

"I've wanted to become a diesel apprentice since I was seven when I first sat in a truck," she said.

"BHP used to have tours that I'd go on. This has just always been an interest of mine.

"It feels great to be accepted and embark in this new journey in the mining industry."