Montana Hottes, a year 11 student, is completing an apprenticeship in automotive light vehicles at Booths Motor Group, Tuggerah.

Alan Milliner, a supervisor at Booths, said it was "fantastic to see a young lady in a non-traditional trade” for women.

“Montana is very focussed and it is a pleasure to teach someone with such enthusiasm and drive," Mr Milliner said.

By the time Montana completes her HSC she will have just three years left to complete her apprenticeship.

She will attend Wyong TAFE one day per week, and will be required on the job at Booths one day a week.

“I am so excited to be given this opportunity," Montana said.

"I've always loved cars and enjoyed gaining experience working with my father in his tyre business. My ultimate dream is to be a monster truck driver."

Environment and community manager at the Wallarah 2 Coal Project, Peter Smith, recently met Montana in the Booths workshop.

“Montana is keen to make the most of her opportunity, and with the support and expertise of her experienced host, Booths Motor Group, she is sure to succeed," Mr Smith said.

“It is a pleasure to support such an enthusiastic young student like Montana and we congratulate Booths Tuggerah for joining with us again, along with Central Coast Group Training."

CENTRAL Coast Council has endorsed a report into the future management of its apprenticeship and trainee program.

From December this year, council will directly employ apprentices and trainees, drawing on group training organisations for administrative support.

Apprentices and trainees are currently employed by two group training organisations, with council acting as the young people’s host employer.

Directly employing apprentices and trainees means they will have clear career pathways and opportunities once they complete their training, the council said.

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