Are you a young, motivated South African ready to launch a technical career? FLSmidth—an industry leader in mining and cement technology—is calling for applications for its 2026 Apprenticeship Programme. With 10 open spots, this is a real opportunity to grow your skills, earn a trade certificate, and be part of a global engineering company.
Why FLSmidth Apprenticeships Are a Big Deal
FLSmidth is more than just another manufacturing or mining business. It’s a company that’s deeply committed to sustainability, innovation, and long-term skill development. Through its Training Academy in Chloorkop (Gauteng), FLSmidth is investing heavily in local talent — selecting ten apprentices each year for a rigorous, three-year program that combines theory and practice.
As reported by Engineering News, FLSmidth’s Training Academy is a cornerstone of its strategy to grow a pipeline of artisans who are highly skilled and ready for both local and international deployment. Through this programme, many apprentices are later absorbed into FLSmidth’s own operations or find roles with other companies in the broader engineering and mining sectors.
What the 2026 Apprenticeship Programme Offers
Structure & Training
- The programme blends classroom-based instruction with hands-on, technical training in a real manufacturing environment.
- Over the course of the apprenticeship, you’ll be guided and mentored by experienced artisans and engineers — ensuring that you build both foundational theory and practical competence.
- At the end, there’s a trade test, and if you pass, you’ll earn a recognized Trade Certificate that qualifies you to work as a skilled artisan.
Your Role
- The current 2026 intake is primarily for the trade of Fitting & Machining.
- You will likely work with FLSmidth’s Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) mining team, giving you exposure to an international engineering environment.
Duration
- The programme runs for three years, during which you’ll undergo formal training and practical placement.
- Supervision is structured: according to FLSmidth, there is at least one artisan mentor for every three apprentices.
Who Should Apply
To be eligible for one of the 10 apprenticeship spots, you should meet the following criteria:
- Academic Requirements:
- Grade 12 with English and Mathematics (Mathematical Literacy is not accepted), with a minimum of Level 3 (about 40%+).
- OR an N3 Mechanical qualification is acceptable.
- Technical Insight: While not mandatory, experience working in a technical environment (e.g., a workshop, maintenance role, or similar) is an advantage.
- Personal Attributes: Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a natural interest in engineering.
- Documentation: Applicants need to upload their ID and certified qualifications when applying.
Why Join FLSmidth’s Programme Specifically?
- Global Exposure: You’ll be part of a multinational engineering company that serves mining and cement industries around the world.
- Real Skill Development: With structured learning and mentorship, you’re not just getting “any job” — you’re building a trade that’s in-demand.
- Sustainable Focus: FLSmidth is deeply invested in sustainable technologies, especially in mining. This means you’re not only learning a trade, but contributing to greener, more efficient industry solutions.
- Strong Support System: The Chloorkop Training Academy is well-equipped, with fabrication shops, machine tools (including CNC), and dedicated artisan trainers.
- Career Pathways: After you complete your trade test, you may have the opportunity for employment within FLSmidth or be positioned strongly for other roles in the mining/engineering sector.
Application Process & Important Dates
- Closing Date: Applications for the 2026 intake close on 28 November 2025.
- How to Apply: Applications must be submitted via FLSmidth’s Workday platform.
- Required Documents: Make sure to prepare certified copies of your ID, Grade 12 certificate (or N3 certificate), and any other relevant qualifications.
- Selection Process: Expect a rigorous screening process. FLSmidth’s reputation for quality learning means they’ll likely assess both your academic credentials and your commitment to learning a trade.
Impact: What This Means for You & South Africa
- Youth Empowerment: By enrolling unemployed youth under 26, FLSmidth is directly contributing to the skills development of South Africa’s next generation of artisans.
- Economic Growth: Skilled artisans are critical for the infrastructure, mining, and manufacturing sectors — and FLSmidth’s academy helps build that talent locally.
- Sustainable Development: Trainees will learn in a context where sustainability is taken seriously — aligning with global goals for greener industrial practices.
- Global Competitiveness: Through its training academy, FLSmidth is building a globally competitive engineering workforce, able to contribute both locally and internationally.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight any technical or mechanical exposure you have, even if informal (e.g., school projects, technical classes).
- Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Explain why you want to be an artisan and why FLSmidth appeals to you — especially their sustainability mission.
- Prepare Early: Don’t wait until the last day to apply. Ensure all your documents are certified, scanned clearly, and ready to upload.
- Be Interview-Ready: If shortlisted, be ready to answer technical questions (or why you want to do fitting/machining), and show you’re keen to learn.
- Network: Try to connect with past FLSmidth apprentices or current artisans on LinkedIn to get a feel for their experiences.
Final Thoughts
The 10 × FLSmidth Apprenticeships for 2026 are a rare and valuable opportunity. They’re not just about getting a stipend — they’re about building a real, globally-relevant trade under the mentorship of industry experts. If you meet the criteria and are passionate about engineering, sustainability, and hands-on learning, you should seriously consider applying.
These apprenticeships offer a strong foundation, long-term career potential, and exposure to cutting-edge engineering in the mining and cement industries. If you’re ready to commit, grow, and build, now is your time to apply.
Good luck — and here’s to launching your engineering career with FLSmidth!
EMAIL :flsm-za@flsmidth.com
shep-in@flsmidth.com