Applications are now open for TransGrid’s 2022 Apprenticeships Program, providing opportunities to work on significant infrastructure projects shaping the future of Australia.
Substation Electrical Apprentices roles are being offered at Eastern Creek, Newcastle, Orange, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga and Yass. Telecommunication Apprentice positions are also available at Eastern Creek, Orange and Yass.
Caren Eliot is one of TransGrid’s 2021 apprentices based at Yass depot, having applied for a TransGrid electrical apprenticeship during the pandemic.
Her past experience included conserving dinosaur bones in outback Queensland, helping save lives as a firefighter and working as a cardiac nurse in the Hunter.
“My cousin, who is a high voltage electrician in the mines, suggested I look into becoming an electrician because it’s got amazing opportunities similar to nursing in that it has challenges as well as being able to constantly teach me new things.
“I wouldn’t change my experience with dinosaurs or firefighting or nursing for anything but this apprenticeship is the best thing I’ve ever done.
“My dad was a domestic electrician in the Hunter and I’m really keen to use those same skills to see how renewables continue to be integrated into our energy system as they get even bigger and better,” Ms Eliot said.
TransGrid Education Program Coordinator, Glen Davis, said the program opens many doors in the energy sector.
“During the pandemic last year we received thousands of applications for the 2021 program and we anticipate a similar level of interest for our next intake.
“It’s a really exciting time to be working in the energy sector and our apprentices will have the opportunity to work on significant infrastructure projects that will shape the future of Australia,” Mr Davis said.
The Apprenticeships Program includes hands-on learning and development in a supportive and stimulating environment.
“I started as an apprentice in 1993 and I’m very thankful for my experience and the people who mentored me and took the time to train me. I’m privileged to now be in a position to give that same opportunity to apprentices today,” Mr Davis said.
19-year-old Ethan Tolmie from Quirindi joined the 2021 Apprenticeship Program after coming through the Clontarf Academy, and said he’s most enjoyed the learning opportunities the apprenticeship has provided.
“It’s awesome, I really love it, everyone has been so kind and it’s such a diverse workforce with everyone from different backgrounds,” Mr Tolmie said.
“For me it’s opened up a whole range of opportunities, especially when it comes to understanding tools and how to use them, even learning how to do some DIY tasks around my own home safely.
“Above that there is also knowing that we’re working to keep the lights on and maintaining substations, it’s pretty phenomenal really to see the big impact that has for our local community.
“My message for other young people is to apply for it – it’s fantastic and can take you many places.”
Applications for TransGrid’s 2022 Apprenticeships Program will close on August 27.
More information about the Apprenticeships Program can be found here.
