Energex boosts apprentice intake

Minister for Mines and Energy, Geoff Wilson, welcomed ENERGEX’s decision to boost apprentice numbers over the next two years.

Speaking at the induction for the first round of new apprentices in the 2007/08 financial year, Mr Wilson congratulated ENERGEX’s proactive decision to increase apprentice numbers by 20% to 100 this financial year and nearly double current recruitment to 150 in 2008/09.

He said the surge in newcomers to Queensland’s energy industry would help meet the growing demand in electricity in the state’s south east.

“The demand is so significant that each year ENERGEX connects more than 35,000 homes and businesses to their network,” Mr Wilson said.

“This is equivalent to adding a city the size of Rockhampton to ENERGEX’s electricity supply each year.

“To make sure demand is met now and into the future, we need apprentice linespeople, electrical fitter mechanics and jointers.

“Each apprentice is vital to the future of electricity distribution in south-east Queensland.

The Minister commended all new apprentices for making the right career choice.

“Each year Energex receives around 1,000 applications for around 80 apprenticeship vacancies.

“This means Energex gets the best of the best,” he said.

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

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.

The new apprentices will later this year take up positions at Energex depots located at Geebung, Kelvin Grove, Greenslopes, Southport, Raceview and Maroochydore.

Media Inquiries: Brooke Johnson (07) 3224 7332