New Energex Apprentices Welcomed

Minister for Mines and Energy Geoff Wilson today welcomed 40 new apprentices to Energex as the organisation recruits to ensure it keeps pace with the future growth of south east Queensland.

The apprentices follow in the footsteps of almost 1000 new field, technical and support staff who have commenced work with Energex during the past three years.

Mr Wilson said the new apprentices were joining a rapidly growing industry that’s experiencing an international shortage of qualified electrical engineers and technical staff.

“Without apprenticeship programs like this, the energy industry simply cannot continue to operate,” Mr Wilson said.

“Apprentices are vital to renewing any industry workforce.

“In recent years Energex has increased its apprentice intake to address an ageing workforce and skills shortages.”

Mr Wilson said that each year Energex receives nearly 1,000 applications for around 80 apprenticeship vacancies.

“This means that less than 10% of applicants are successful in gaining positions which means Energex gets the best of the best,” he said.

“Energex continues to invest in the future of Queensland by hiring and training record numbers of apprentices and field staff to meet the challenges of the fastest growing state in Australia.

“Every working day an average of 119 additional homes and 25 commercial buildings connect to the Energex electricity network in south east Queensland – that’s easily one of the fastest growth rates on record.

“Apprentices are a key part of Energex’s forward planning strategies – strategies that will ensure the power supply keeps pace with growth, and to ensure the network’s reliability continues to improve.”

Mr Wilson said it was interesting to note that 99% of the people who begin Energex apprenticeships complete them and, of these people, 80-90% remain with the company after trade-specific training.

The new apprentices starting today will later this year take up positions at Energex depots located at Geebung, Kelvin Grove, Greenslopes, Southport, Raceview, Maroochydore, Banyo, Brisbane City, Springwood, Richlands and Gympie.

Media Inquiries: Brooke Johnson (07) 3224 7332