Caren Elliot has worn many hats in her career from conserving dinosaur bones in outback Queensland to helping save lives as a firefighter and cardiac nurse in the Hunter. Now the 39-year-old has added a hard hat to the list after starting a TransGrid electrical apprenticeship.
Caren is one of TransGrid’s 2021 apprentices based at Yass depot. She applied during the pandemic while working as cardiac nurse.
“My cousin, who is a high voltage electrician in the mines, suggested I look into becoming an electrician because it’s got amazing opportunities similar to nursing in that it has challenges as well as being able to constantly teach me new things.
“I wouldn’t change my experience with dinosaurs or firefighting or nursing for anything but this apprenticeship is the best thing I’ve ever done.
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“My dad was a domestic electrician in the Hunter and I’m really keen to use those same skills to see how renewables continue to be integrated into our energy system as they get even bigger and better,” she said.
Applications are now open for TransGrid’s 2022 Apprenticeships Program and Caren is encouraging others to apply.
“I’ve never felt this at home in a company. If you’re interested please give it a go and throw your hat into the ring,” Caren said.
Substation Electrical Apprentices roles are being offered at Eastern Creek, Newcastle, Orange, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga and Yass. Telecommunication Apprentice positions are also available at Eastern Creek, Orange and Yass.
TransGrid’s high voltage transmission network connects more than 3.5 million homes and businesses across NSW and the ACT and delivers safe and reliable electricity.
TransGrid education program coordinator Glen Davis said the program opens many doors in the energy sector.
“During the pandemic last year we received thousands of applications for the 2021 program and we anticipate a similar level of interest for our next intake.
“It’s a really exciting time to be working in the energy sector and our apprentices will have the opportunity to work on significant infrastructure projects that will shape the future of Australia,” Glen said.
The Apprenticeships Program includes hands-on learning and development in a supportive and stimulating environment.
“I started as an apprentice in 1993 and I’m very thankful for my experience and the people who mentored me and took the time to train me. I’m privileged to now be in a position to give that same opportunity to apprentices today” Glen said.
Someone who is just starting out on that same journey is 19-year-old Ethan Tolmie from Quirindi, he joined the 2021 Apprenticeship Program after coming through the Clontarf Academy.
“It’s awesome, I really love it, everyone has been so kind and it’s such a diverse workforce with everyone from different backgrounds,” he said.
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Ethan said he’s most enjoyed the learning opportunities the apprenticeship has provided.
“For me it’s opened up a whole range of opportunities, especially when it comes to understanding tools and how to use them, even learning how to do some DIY tasks around my own home safely.
“Above that there is also knowing that we’re working to keep the lights on and maintaining substations, it’s pretty phenomenal really to see the big impact that has for our local community.
“My message for other young people is to apply for it—it’s fantastic and can take you many places,” he said
Applications for TransGrid’s 2022 Apprenticeships Program will close on August 27.
If you know someone who may be interested in the Apprenticeships Program you can find more information here.
