Apprenticeships galore for energy workforce

Energy Queensland

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Energy Queensland Mossman work group officer Wade Broadley, apprentice linesperson Lindsie Jack and work group leader Gerard Brown. Picture: Energy Queensland

Up to 180 new apprentices will join the more than 600 already helping to keep the power on in Queensland as part of the Ergon Energy Network and Energex state-wide recruitment drive for electrical apprentices to start in February 2026.

Apprenticeship positions are opening in Mareeba, Mossman, Cooktown and Cape York locations up to Thursday Island, with roles available at a total of 58 depots and centres across Queensland.

The recruitment program, details of which can be found at www.ergon.com.au/apprenticeships or www.energex.com.au/apprenticeships, is hiring for five different trade types, with applications now open and closing on Sunday, June 29.

Applicants need to be aged at least 17 by February 1, 2026, with no upper age limit in place, and the apprenticeships have proved popular with school leavers, an Energy Queensland spokesperson says.

“Our apprentices work a 9-day fortnight, with excellent pay and conditions, as well as world-class training,’’ they said.

“Applicants do not need to have completed Year 12.’’

Dan McGaw, Ergon’s apprentice program development coordinator, said if you are looking for a rewarding career in the electricity industry, an Ergon apprenticeship is an amazing launch pad.

“You can earn good money with great conditions and finish with trade qualifications that set you up for the future,'' he said.

“You will get everything you need to do your role – we never compromise on tools, equipment or safety and Ergon is an industry leader when it comes to its apprentice training programs and pastoral care.

“Electricity is the lifeblood of any community and Ergon apprentices make a valuable contribution even before they have finished their trade.

“Apprentices who have pitched in to help restore power after cyclones and floods will tell you disaster response is probably the most rewarding thing they have done, as well as the best learning experience.”

The 2025 apprenticeship intake totalled 184 apprentices and included ages from 17 to 54 with 42 per cent aged under 21 years.

Males accounted for 60 per cent of the apprentices, with 40 per cent female, while 11 per cent identified as First Nations and there were six ex-defence force personnel in the intake via the pathway partnership with RSL Queensland.

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