Lisburn company welcomes international trainee to city

Thirty five international students from 23 different countries were welcomed to Northern Ireland at a reception held in Stormont last week.

The reception, sponsored by the Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Stephen Farry, was in acknowledgement of the students taking part in the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE) programme who are currently on placement across Northern Ireland.

Blaz has been working with GE Energy Srvices offering his expertise, whilst gaining some valuable insight during his time with the company.

Louise Caskey of GE Energy Service said it has been a new venture for the company in Northern Ireland and one that has benefited both employer and Blaz.

“As a company we have been able to utilise the expertise of a dedicated individual from Slovenia, who has embraced our diverse culture and seen the benefits of working for General Electric and of course in Northern Ireland” Louise said.

The reception also provided an opportunity to celebrate Northern Ireland winning the bid to host the IAESTE Annual Conference in 2013. This prestigious event which will bring together over 250 delegates from 85 countries throughout the world to spend a week in Belfast.

The minister, Dr Farry, said: “In an increasingly mobile global environment it is essential that programmes such as IAESTE are used by young people from Northern Ireland, and beyond, to maximise their learning experiences and fully prepare them for the career challenges that lie ahead.

“It is essential that our students recognise the opportunities such programmes provide to not only enhance their employability but also to broaden the breadth of their social and cultural awareness.”