In a state-first, high school students from Stanthorpe are part of a new regional, rural and remote cadetship program in the transformative energy industry, through a partnership between Ergon Energy Network and Energex and TAFE Queensland.

This year, eighteen students from across South West Queensland have been selected to participate in the program offered at five TAFE Queensland campuses. Students will also attend work experience placements at Ergon Energy Network and Energex depots located in Stanthorpe and Warwick to as far west as Charleville, north to Yarraman and Kilkivan and east to Boonah.

St Joseph’s School Year 12 students, Dustin Alldrdge and Patrick Brown have been accepted into the inaugural program delivered across south western Queensland, including depots in Warwick, Kilkivan, Millmerran and Charleville.

Dustin and Patrick will gain practical work experience at Ergon Energy Network’s Warwick depot, through in-community placements during the program.

“I’m hoping to get better knowledge and understanding on the topic so that in the future when I apply for a job employers will see I have the basic knowledge and understanding of the job,” said Dustin.

Keen to pursue an electrical apprenticeship in the future, Patrick is also looking forward to gaining hands-on skills and knowledge in the field.

“I have a keen interest in becoming an electrician. I am hopeful that this opportunity through Ergon and TAFE to complete this Certificate II in Electrotechnology, as well the on-site work experience opportunities, will give the experience and fundamental skills and knowledge to progress into a full-time apprenticeship post-school,” said Patrick.

The cadetship participants complete a Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) (UEE2201) over four terms, with a combination of weekly online workshops, on-campus practical days led by TAFE Queensland teachers, and depot work experience guided by Ergon Energy Network and Energex experts.

Ergon Energy Network and Energex spokesperson, Dan McGaw said: “It’s great to partner with TAFE Queensland and spark interest in career opportunities in the industry.”

“This program will provide foundational electrotechnology skills and a clear pathway towards an energy sector-related apprenticeship for young people.”

TAFE Queensland General Manager of the South West Region, Jenni Butler, said that the organisation was proud to work together with Australia’s largest electricity company to help equip the next generation of energy tradespeople.

“Working with Ergon Energy Network and Energex ensures our training programs are tailored to the specific needs of the industry,” said Ms Butler.

“The program participants will gain the confidence, the capabilities, and are ready to help drive a bright future for the industry and their communities.”

Find out more about TAFE at School and pre-apprenticeship courses at tafeqld.edu.au/tafe-at-school.

From left to right: Ergon Energy Network and Energex Apprentice Manager, Brad Rigby, Dominic Clarke from Pittsworth State High School, Dustin Alldridge and Patrick Brown from St Joseph's School (Stanthorpe), Ergon Energy Network and Energex Apprentice Program Development Coordinator, Dan McGaw, Clare Parry from Clifton State High School student, Cameron Betts from Warwick State High School and Ergon Energy Network and Energex Area Manager, Jason Rowe.