Essential Energy launches apprenticeship recruitment campaign

To help meet the projected demand for new skills in light of Australia’s energy transition, Essential Energy has embarked on its largest apprenticeship recruitment campaign in more than 15 years.

The electricity distributor is expanding its training programs to fill expected gaps in industry capability as new and emerging technology and renewable power sources are rolled out across NSW.

While traditional trade qualifications will remain integral to Essential Energy’s four-year apprenticeship program, additional training modules will be introduced to complement existing programs and build the skills, expertise and on-the job experience needed to support the expanding pipeline of new energy infrastructure projects across the state.

Given the rapid pace of change as energy networks adapt to a low-carbon future, Essential Energy is developing micro-courses to guide training on clean energy skills and expertise, with the plan to expand into accredited courses and training program components. Subjects will include courses covering:

• solar energy
• SAPS (stand alone power systems)
• battery storage
• electric vehicles
• commissioning (and decommissioning) renewable technologies.
   

Essential Energy Chief People Officer Amalie Smith said that access to highly skilled labour had been identified by the industry as one of the biggest potential hurdles for Australia in achieving its clean energy targets.

“Now is arguably the most exciting time ever to start an apprenticeship or traineeship in our sector; the opportunities and possibilities are endless. In reality, the jobs of the future are still being defined, which is one of the attractions for people entering the industry now. We aren’t just offering people a job, we are offering them a stimulating long-term career,” Smith said.

Essential Energy also intends to explore its regional footprint, covering 95% of the state to identify potential sites to host training programs for new and renewable technologies. It plans to collaborate with tertiary institutions and industry peers to share research and resources.

The apprenticeship program is seeking 125 apprentices and trainees across 77 locations in regional NSW. The campaign has already attracted strong interest from female candidates, reflecting the larger numbers of young women taking on STEM subjects at school, TAFE and university.

Essential Energy said the program had high completion rates, with 93% of apprentices graduating. More than 90% remained with the business after completing their apprenticeship, with one in four promoted into higher-level technical and supervisory roles.

Essential Energy’s additional training programs will cater to both apprentices and experienced technicians transitioning their career paths in readiness for a renewable energy world.

“It’s a great time to work in the energy industry; the way our everyday lives are powered is changing, and I love being a part of that change,” said Essential Energy powerline worker Jacob Browne, who recently graduated from his four-year apprenticeship. “I’m grateful to have the opportunity to learn new skills and be equipped for those crucial changes, in an important and fulfilling career at Essential Energy.”

For more information about the apprenticeship program, visit: https://www.essentialenergy.com.au/careers/apprenticeships.

Image credit: iStock.com/Thurtell