The future of the electricity distribution industry in Queensland looks bright with 102 apprentices starting their careers with the state’s publicly-owned electricity companies in the first months of 2020.
Acting Energy Minister Mark Ryan today welcomed and congratulated the apprentices, who are joining Energex and Ergon Energy, at more than 50 locations across Queensland.
Mr Ryan said 28 Energex apprentices were undertaking their initial training before being based at 15 depots across South-East Queensland.
Seventy-four apprentices begin their training with Ergon Energy in Townsville, Rockhampton and Toowoomba from Monday, February 3 and in Cairns and Maryborough from February 10. They will then move to 39 depots across regional and rural Queensland.
Mr Ryan said Energex and Ergon, as part of Energy Queensland, had a strong focus on diversity and he was pleased that 26 women had secured apprenticeships in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
“An apprenticeship with Energex or Ergon is more than a 9-to-5, Monday-to-Friday job – it’s a commitment to the community and the start of a great career,” he said.
“As you learn the skills of your chosen trade, you will be responsible for helping to ensure the people of Queensland continue to enjoy a world-class, safe and reliable electricity supply.
“You will be among the crews who keep the lights on, often working in challenging conditions to restore power after storms and cyclones.”
The new apprentices will train as communications technicians, distribution linespersons, transmission linespersons, mechanical fitters, electricians and underground cable jointers.
Energy Queensland CEO Peter Scott said he was pleased to see the strong intake of apprentices representing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities.
“The intake includes 12 positions to be made available to candidates identifying as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island descent, fulfilling our commitment to a diverse workforce, reflective of the communities we serve,” he said.
More than 20 apprentices will also join Queensland’s other publicly owned electricity companies including Powerlink, CS Energy and Stanwell Corp in 2020.
Ergon Energy and Energex recruit for apprentices every year and encourage those seeking a trade in the industry to keep an eye on the companies’ websites.
Energex: careers/apprenticeships.
Ergon Energy: careers/apprenticeships
