A scheme to give trainees hands on experience at an air conditioning firm is to be extended.

AirCare’s partnership with the Impact Mentoring Academy saw Stephon Paynter, who worked with the firm last summer, return to continue on-the-job training with the firm.

And he was joined by fellow Impact pupil Zhuri Burgess for his first stint with AirCare as a summer intern.

Brendan Stones, AirCare’s general manager, said: “When we partnered with Impact last year, we said we hoped it would be a long-term relationship.

“The experience with Stephon was such a success that we not only invited him back this summer, but also explored the possibility with Impact’s executive director to expand the opportunity to include an additional student.

“Zhuri will go through a similar programme as Stephon did in his first year, while Stephon will be given the opportunity to expand on the knowledge and experience he gained previously.”

Mr Stones added: “AirCare is committed to exposing young Bermudians to this industry so they can see for themselves the viability and range of career options available to them, all while gaining valuable hands on experience.

“We want young Bermudians to see at first hand the development path that AirCare can expose them to and show them that there is a fulfilling future for them in this industry.”

Mr Paynter, 16, has worked under senior technicians to get experience in a range of fields, including fire protection and air conditioning, as well as refrigeration.

He was also given weekly assignments, including research on refrigeration.

Mr Paynter said he was delighted to be asked to rejoin the company for a second stint.

He added: “It was a lot of fun. I learnt a lot of new things and want to learn more and build on what I achieved last year. I’m looking forward to spending another summer at AirCare.”

Mr Burgess, 17, said: “I want to learn. It’s always good to get information about trades and to have something up your sleeve.”

Chris Crumpler, executive director at Impact, added the ongoing relationship with AirCare was providing students with important training and insight into what was needed to succeed.

He said: “I am delighted that AirCare was able to take both Stephon and Zhuri this year.

“They are both intelligent and hardworking young men who will benefit greatly from this experience.”