YEKEPA, Nimba County – More than 200 young Liberians have officially transitioned from trainees to full-time employees at ArcelorMittal Liberia after completing rigorous training programs aimed at equipping them with essential skills for the mining industry.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
The graduates, drawn from the ArcelorMittal Training Academy, including Process Operator Learners and Artisans in training, were honored during an elaborate Career Launch Ceremony held in Yekepa, where AML’s senior executives and stakeholders gathered to celebrate their achievement.
With their official employment status taking effect immediately, the newly graduated and hired artisans and process operators are now poised to contribute to AML’s ongoing multi-billion-dollar expansion project, which is expected to transform Liberia’s mining sector and boost the national economy.
ArcelorMittal Liberia has been at the forefront of developing Liberia’s mining workforce, investing in training programs designed to bridge the skills gap and ensure that Liberians take up key technical roles in the industry.
During the ceremony, Mr Kleber Silva, AML’s Global Vice President for Mining, praised the graduates for their hard work and commitment, emphasizing the global significance of the knowledge they have acquired.
“I am very proud and honored to be part of this celebration of your achievements as you join us in mining and this great investment,” Silva said.
“What you have learned here is invaluable, not just for Liberia or Africa, but on a global scale. You are now equipped to showcase excellence in the industry.”
He highlighted that the graduates are entering the workforce at a crucial time when AML is expanding its iron ore production and modernizing its operations to remain competitive in the global market.
AML’s Head of Human Resources, Rebecca Kwabo Buegar, described the recruitment process as the fastest in the company’s history. She emphasized AML’s strong commitment to prioritizing Liberian talent and ensuring that young professionals are given opportunities to excel.
“The artisans and process operator learners have demonstrated commitment and consistency, and today, their hard work has paid off,” Buegar said.
“This has been a challenging journey, but you persevered. We have never had such a comprehensive training program before, and now, you are fully prepared, 360 degrees trained.”
The rapid recruitment process underscores AML’s strategy to develop a highly skilled local workforce capable of handling advanced mining operations.
The newly hired employees include 128 graduates from the ArcelorMittal Training Academy, specializing in various artisanal trades such as welding, electrical work, and heavy machinery operation. 108 process operators trained to manage AML’s state-of-the-art iron ore concentrator, a critical component of the company’s expansion plans.
This new generation of skilled professionals will play a vital role in AML’s push to increase iron ore production, a move that is expected to cement Liberia’s position as a key player in the global mining industry.
For many of the graduates, the journey to full-time employment was both demanding and rewarding Barcho T Toure, a graduate of the Process Operator Learner Program, described the training as an eye-opening experience that prepared him for a career in the mining sector.
“When I first joined the program, I had no idea how complex and advanced these operations were, but through hands-on training and guidance from experienced professionals, I have gained skills that will last a lifetime I am excited to be part of AML’s expansion and to contribute to Liberia’s development,” Toure said.
Cyrus Baryogar, an Artisan in Training graduate, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the value of perseverance and technical knowledge acquired during the program.
“This training was tough, but every challenge made us stronger. Today, we are not just graduates, but professionals ready to take on real-world tasks in one of Africa’s biggest mining operations. I am grateful to AML for this opportunity,” Baryogar said.
Beyond the personal achievements of the graduates, their employment marks a major milestone for Liberia’s economy. With over 200 young professionals securing full-time jobs, hundreds of families will now benefit from stable incomes, boosting local businesses and community development in Nimba County and beyond.
The impact of this workforce expansion extends far beyond AML. The mining sector remains a cornerstone of Liberia’s economic growth, and by empowering young Liberians with technical skills and meaningful employment, AML is reinforcing its commitment to national development.
As AML continues its ambitious expansion, these newly trained professionals will be at the forefront of the company’s transformation, ensuring that Liberia’s mining sector remains competitive, innovative, and sustainable.
With their expertise and dedication, the future of Liberia’s mining industry looks brighter than ever.
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