Record number of apprentices to tackle energy transition

In a bid to ready its workforce for Australia’s energy transition, Ampcontrol has taken on what it describes as a record number of 55 new apprentices, who will start work in 2024 across NSW, Qld and WA.

The company offers multiple career pathways across its Australian operations, including its Apprentice and Graduate Program, encouraging students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. In 2024, it will expand its established career pathway programs to include cadetships and school-based apprenticeships.

Of the 55 apprentices starting in 2024, 38 are starting in NSW, nine in Queensland and eight in WA. The types of apprentices employed are electrical, fabrication, mechanical fitting and machining.

Ampcontrol said its apprentice and graduate programs give students the opportunity to experience multiple aspects of a business, allowing them to participate in innovative projects that test their problem-solving skills early on in their careers.

“I’ve been involved in standalone power systems integrated with hydrogen technology and large-scale renewable projects,” said Alex Stamenkovski, Ampcontrol Graduate Engineer.

“At Ampcontrol, we work at the forefront of the electrification of Australian mining, which will only grow as mines move away from diesel. The graduate program has provided me with valuable opportunities to apply my skills in renewable energy in a rewarding and meaningful way.”

Leigh Stefanszyn, Executive General Manager – People and Engagement, acknowledged the need for more tradespeople to be trained to respond to industry needs for Australia to head into a clean energy environment.

“It is estimated over the next seven years, we will be upwards of 44,000 tradespeople short to help us on the clean energy path that we’re currently on,” she said.

“Coming into Ampcontrol Career Pathway Programs now is vitally important to prepare those skills for the next five to seven years and beyond.”

Image caption: Ampcontrol CEO Rod Henderson (L) and Apprentice Trainee Coordinator Andrew van Der Stelt with 2024 apprentices. Image courtesy of Ampcontrol.