Looking to gain skills in a trades area?
It’s an excellent time to be pursuing a career within the energy industry. Ausgrid – one of the largest energy providers in Australia is currently undergoing a period of enormous growth. Over the next few years we’ll be investing record amounts in our electricity network and on improving our service to meet increased demand and maintain reliability.

If you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander looking to try your hand at a trade, the Ausgrid Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pre-Apprenticeship program may be for you!

Fully funded and accredited, the program has been developed alongside TAFE NSW – Sydney. At the end of the course and based on your results, you will be eligible to apply for Ausgrid’s apprentice program.  

About the Pre-Apprenticeship Program
The 10 week, full time program starts in April 2012 at Petersham TAFE in Sydney, with a final preparation phase before the Ausgrid selection test in July.

You’ll also get real, hands-on work experience one day a week at Ausgrid’s Apprentice Training Centre in Silverwater.

The program will equip you with the skills you need to succeed in the energy industry. At the end of the program you’ll be able to identify and use a whole range of components, accessories, materials, tools and equipment. You’ll also gain an understanding of Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures.

Benefits of doing the pre-apprenticeship program

Who can apply?
If you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and you’re keen to gain technical skills in the electrical trade, then you’re exactly who we’re looking for. You’ll be solving problems and dealing with people, so you should have some interest in developing your maths and communication skills. You also need to work well in a team and be dedicated to working safety. 

So whether you’re a school leaver or looking for a change of career, this could be a great learning opportunity for you.
 

To find out more
For more information, please contact Lyn Wilson, Head Teacher Foundation Education, TAFE NSW – Sydney Institute on 0409 310 384

Meet some of Ausgrid’s Aboriginal Employees

	Athol Roberts - Apprentice “The Pre-Apprenticeship Program has given me new knowledge and skills. Ausgrid and TAFE are genuinely helpful and there is so much support”
	Mathew Lyons - Apprentice ‘‘My brother and I heard about the Pre-Apprenticeship program and we decided to give it a go. Now we’re both Apprentice Line workers learning new things everyday, gaining a trade and making a career out of it!
	Ben Quinlan - Apprentice “I saw the Pre-Apprenticeship Program as a positive step forward and a chance to show Ausgrid how keen I was to learn. The program taught me so much and really tailors to your individual style of learning.”
	David Harrison Apprentice “The Pre-Apprenticeship Program opened an opportunity for me to change careers. Ausgrid and TAFE are so supportive. I was nervous about applying for my apprenticeship but the program helped develop my skills and built up my confidence.”
	Blake Smith - Apprentice “The 10 week course was challenging but was worth all the hard work. I would definitely recommend Ausgrid to others – the people are great and the opportunities are endless.”