The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Western Australia has launched a new process plant operator training model through its energy apprenticeships group, with the four major oilers helping to design and deliver the program which directly addresses the industry's unique needs.

Applications close on September 11 for the 15 places available, for which Year 12 graduates are encouraged to apply.

Students will study at the Australian Centre for Energy and Process Training in Perth over the course's four-year duration, and then undertake work experience on site at various production facilities on a fly-in, fly-out roster.

EAG national manager Pat Tierney said the pilot program was the first time multiple organisations within the Australian oil and gas industry had teamed up to share resources and create a mutual training program.

"In approximately 10 years' time more than half the oil and gas workforce will have reached retirement age, so it is fantastic the industry is working together now to address the impending skills shortage," Tierney said.

"Participants in our new training program will complete an apprenticeship designed directly with oil and gas companies and no prior experience is needed.

"Candidates will gain technical knowledge on hydrocarbon processing systems, develop skills to operate process facilities and will build a strong mechanical aptitude.

"EAG is proud to have facilitated such an innovative approach and is committed to building a qualified workforce of skilled and reliable workers for the oil and gas industry."

Applications for the program are now open with the first round of students to start training on February 1, 2016.

For details of the program, go to this link.