School leavers, career changers, and regional jobseekers have the opportunity to learn a trade, earn nationally recognised qualifications and play a real part in Australia’s transition to renewables with applications now open for Transgrid’s 2027 Apprentice Program.
The program is coming off the back of this year’s record intake—29 first-year apprentices, 45% of them women—working across regional NSW in substation, telecommunications, and transmission line roles.
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Transgrid executive general manager delivery Jennifer Hughes said, “As Australia accelerates one of the world’s most ambitious clean energy transitions, we need a skilled workforce ready to meet the challenges ahead.
“You don’t need to have it all figured out. If you’re curious, willing to learn and want to build something meaningful, we’ll support you with training, mentoring and hands-on experience from day one.
“We also want to see more people give it a go—including women, First Nations people, and residents from the regions where we work. A network this important should be built by people from the communities it serves.”
Apprentices gain hands-on experience maintaining and expanding Transgrid’s high-voltage network, as well as working on large-scale infrastructure projects, including EnergyConnect, HumeLink and the NSW section of VNI West, supported by technical training, face-to-face learning and mentorship from industry professionals.
Orange resident April Rich completed Transgrid’s 2024 Pre-Apprenticeship Program and instantly knew she had found her fit. Now a second-year Transmission Line Apprentice, she is part of the growing number of women making their mark in the industry.
“I wanted a job that took me places—physically and professionally. After a taste of line work in the pre-apprentice program, I knew this was it,” Rich said.
“I wanted something with real growth and variety. I love a challenge and a bit of adrenaline, and this ticks all the boxes.
“I especially love the big jobs and getting to climb the 500kV and 330kV structures. The views from the top are impressive to say the least.”
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Applications for the 2027 Apprentice Program are open now, with roles at Newcastle, Orange, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga, Wallgrove and Yass.
