ArcelorMittal Liberia unveils new cohorts of trainees
By Stephen G. Fellajuah
ArcelorMittal Liberia has unveiled a significant new cohort of trainees under its Artisans and Process Operator programs, marking a major investment in the professional development of Liberian youth.
Monrovia, April 4, 2025: This initiative is part of the company’s broader strategy to enhance technical skills within the local workforce, supporting Liberia’s development goals.
The program, which began with a large recruitment exercise, targets over 200 trainees from Bong, Nimba, and Grand Bassa counties.
These individuals were selected to be prepared for positions in ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Phase II expansion project, which includes the construction of a new concentrator plant in Yekepa.
The training is designed to combine both theoretical and practical components, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to handle complex processing equipment.
Upon successful completion, the trainees will have the opportunity to join ArcelorMittal Liberia as Process Operators.
The company’s Training Academy (AMLTA) in Yekepa has played a crucial role in providing vocational and technical education, with a curriculum covering diesel mechanics, electrical mechanics, and product making.
The training program also begins with six months of foundational courses in engineering science, mathematics, drawing, and trade theory.
A career-launch ceremony for the trainees was held at the AMLTA in Yekepa, Nimba County, on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The event was attended by staff from ArcelorMittal Liberia, and trainees expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to embark on this important stage of their careers.
During the ceremony, the trainees reflected on their experiences, highlighting the valuable hands-on skills they gained in operation, troubleshooting, and teamwork. Barebo T. Toure, a Process Operator Learner, and Cyrus Bsryogar, an Artisan in Training, both spoke highly of their education and the skill development they were receiving.
They expressed appreciation for ArcelorMittal Liberia’s unwavering commitment to providing career empowerment opportunities.
Michael Vandermerwe, Chief Executive Officer of ArcelorMittal Liberia, welcomed the trainees and pledged his full support for the program. “This is an opportunity that will launch your career, and we are excited to be part of your journey,” he said in his address.
In his special remarks, Mr. Kleber Silva, CEO of ArcelorMittal Liberia Mining, expressed his satisfaction at seeing young people engage with the company’s investments.
He emphasized the importance of the training in contributing to the country’s growth and expressed confidence that the skills learned would help shape a modern Liberia, both now and in the future.
The AMLTA offers a comprehensive program covering various disciplines, underscoring ArcelorMittal Liberia’s commitment to building a skilled, diverse workforce. Through this initiative, the company continues to play a significant role in the professional development of Liberia’s future leaders.
