Queensland’s latest energy recruits are getting their first taste of the industry, with 85 apprentices signing on to Ergon Energy for its 2016 intake.
Ergon is welcoming the new guard with inductions at Maryborough, Townsville, Rockhampton, Toowoomba, Cairns, Mackay and Brisbane. Once they have completed their inductions and initial training, the apprentices will return to their home depots in 40 locations, from Thursday Island to Charleville.
Acting chief executive Roslyn Baker said this year’s intake continued Ergon Energy’s commitment to training the workforce of tomorrow.
“It’s vital that we continue to teach and pass on the front-line expertise and skills now and into the future to deliver a safe, reliable and affordable electricity supply to customers. This apprenticeship intake demonstrates that commitment,” she said.
“Most of our crews throughout the state begin their careers in the industry as apprentices, just like this year’s intake, and the value and reliance the community places on their work soon become apparent – especially in times of natural disasters.
“Almost 12 months ago we saw the importance of having a highly trained workforce when our company responded to Cyclone Marcia,” Ms Baker said.
Among the group are eight Indigenous apprentices and 17 females, ready to take on traditionally male-dominated roles.
They will train as communications technicians, distribution linespersons, systems electricians and transmission linespersons. Some will embark on tertiary studies for either an associate degree or advanced diploma qualification while undertaking their usual apprenticeship training. The group also includes six current employees who have successfully sought an apprenticeship to further their careers.
“The newest recruits will gain skills such as communications technicians, distribution linespersons, systems electricians and transmission linespersons,” Ms Baker said.
“Some of the new recruits will embark on tertiary studies for either an associate degree or advanced diploma qualification while undertaking their usual apprenticeship training. We wish them the best of success as we welcome them into our workforce.”
