Workers and industry in regional NSW are set to benefit from the appointment of the State’s first Electricity Infrastructure Jobs Advocate, Dr Mark Apthorpe.
Energy Minister Matt Kean said Dr Apthorpe will work closely with regional communities to advise on strategies to encourage workforce development, education and training in regional NSW, including the Hunter and Central Coast.
“With the world decarbonising we are on the cusp of one of the greatest economic transformations since the industrial revolution,” Mr Kean said.
“In New South Wales we are already seeing billions of dollars of commercial interest in new electricity infrastructure, which is expected to spark a manufacturing renaissance in our State.”
“This is an incredible opportunity for our skilled regional workforces who will build, install and maintain this new equipment to power the booming industries of the future, and I’m confident that Dr Apthorpe will be a strong advocate on their behalf.”
Dr Apthorpe will also advise on the development of road, rail and port infrastructure required in the regions to promote export opportunities for electricity generation, storage and network technology.
Based in the Hunter, Dr Apthorpe is the Chair of the Hunter Plant Operator Training School Ltd (HPOTS) and the Hunter Section of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). He is a strategic management expert who has held senior executive roles in energy and logistics businesses.
“Dr Apthorpe has demonstrated strong leadership for over 20 years and is known for his passion for innovation and building a culture that delivers for stakeholders,” Mr Kean said.
Dr Apthorpe tenure commences from 07 March 2022.
