Career Opportunities

Career opportunities for people in the electrical industry are many and varied. An electrical apprenticeship is one of the best ways to build a career in that industry. An electrical trade is highly regarded, it's highly portable, well paid and many electricians go on to start their own businesses. There are also a large number of related trades under the broad heading of Electrotechnology such as in air-conditioning and refrigeration, instrumentation and communications.

For further information about career opportunities visit www.ee-oz.com.au.

Electrical Apprenticeships

An electrical apprenticeship takes four years and includes three years of TAFE studies (generally one day per week).

In some cases the TAFE studies or off-the-job training is conducted by "block release." Block release is where the job training is conducted periodically throughout the year in a block form of one of more consecutive weeks.

For persons undertaking an electrical apprenticeship the formal course undertaken at TAFE is UTE30199 Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Systems Electrician).

Finding An Apprenceship

NECA South Australia strongly suggests that individuals should be proactive in seeking an apprenticeship. Rather than wait for a prospective employer to call you it is in your interests to contact prospective employers and apply for an apprenticeship.

Check the employment sections of the state and local newspapers. It is also suggested that you look under "Electrical Contractors" in your Yellow Pages to develop a list of prospective employers and apply for an apprenticeship. Employers generally react positively when job seekers are proactive and display initiative in seeking a job.

Group Training

Group Training Companies are another excellent employment option for persons seeking an apprenticeship. Group Training Companies employ the apprentice directly but place them with "host" employers to undertake the practical on-the-job training. In this way apprentices are rotated through a number of different employers and gain exposure and experience in a range of environments.

NECA South Australia's preferred Group Training Company is PEER VEET and they are contactable on (08) 8348 1200.

Further information about Group Training Companies can also be found on the website of Group Training Australia.

Registered Training Organisation

NECA South Australia is affiliated with a leading private training provider, PEER TEC which provides training for New Apprentices in the building, construction and contracting industries in South Australia.

The trade-based training offered is for Electrical, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning, Telecommunication, Security Systems Installers, Plumbing and Sprinkler Fitting.

PEER TEC also provides upskill training and assessment for qualified tradespersons who are required to maintain their licences and competencies under various laws and regulations.

For further information, please contact PEER VEET on Ph: (08) 8348 1200.

Additional Information

For additional information about apprenticeships visit the Australian Apprenticeships website at http://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au or call 13 38 73.