Horizon Power is collaborating with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Western Australia (CCI) and Engineers Australia in an industry first training program for graduate engineers.
Graduates@CCI’ Power Engineering Training Program gives graduates extensive exposure to various engineering career pathways, allowing them to develop broad skills in all aspects of power engineering including design, generation, distribution and retail.
Horizon Power managing director Frank Tudor said the collaboration enables graduates to gain practical, hands-on experience while contributing to the achievement of a variety of projects within the business.
Energy Minister Mike Nahan congratulated the first two students to take part in the program.
“Collaboration of this kind is a fantastic step forward for the energy sector, and I congratulate the first two engineering graduates to take part in the innovative program,” Dr Nahan said.
“I also commend Horizon Power, CCI WA and Engineers Australia (WA) for working together to develop the program, which aims to build a workforce of engineers with broad qualifications and extensive experience. This will strengthen the expertise of the power industry and ultimately result in better outcomes for WA consumers.”
Engineering graduates Sanket Wankhede and Nathan Mazoue are undertaking a six month internship with Horizon Power. Both said they were grateful for the opportunity to develop a range of professional and technical skills in the power industry which will enhance their career prospects.
“I am really enjoying the experience of applying my university studies to real life situations and engaging in a range of interesting and challenging projects,” Mr Mazoue said.
Sanket said his experience so far has been wonderful, “I have already gained a valuable insight into the industry and the support I have received from Horizon Power has been amazing.”
CCI CEO Deidre Willmott said the three-year program is designed to give graduates the chance to explore different pathways in the beginning of their career.
“Rather than specialising early on in their careers, graduates have the opportunity to cultivate a range of skills through their placements with industry leaders,” Ms Willmott said.
“CCI is committed to developing the skills and experience of Western Australia’s future engineers and making it easier for businesses to work with graduates.”
The program’s practical experience is supported by a unique professional development program, designed and delivered by Engineers Australia.
General Manager WA Engineers Australia Susan Kreemer Pickford said the program expedites the transition of graduates into the workforce and assists them in developing key competencies required to achieve chartered status.
“The program is an important part of our work in nurturing the next generation of innovative engineers and reinforcing the integrity of the profession,” Ms Kreemer Pickford said.