Minister welcomes new Energex apprentices

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson has welcomed 45 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 four years.

Mr Wilson said the new apprentices were joining a rapidly growing industry.

“This is one of the fastest growing industries in the world which is why apprenticeship programs are enormously important for workforce renewal and capability,” he said.

Mr Wilson said that each year Energex received nearly 1000 applications for around 80 apprenticeship vacancies.

“So less than 10 percent of applicants are successful in gaining positions but this means Energex gets the best of the best,” he said.

“Energex is investing 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.”

Mr Wilson said 99 percent of the people who began Energex apprenticeships completed them and of these, 80-90 percent remained with the company after trade-specific training.

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

Media inquiries: Caroline Kaurila 3224 7332.