In the past five years, 86 apprentices have joined Transgrid across six sites in New South Wales (NSW), with 17 positions at Newcastle, ensuring the city’s critical role in developing the knowledge, skills and experience to operate the state’s high-voltage network.
An additional 30 apprentices will start work across the network in January, with six based at Newcastle.
Transgrid Executive General Manager of Delivery Jennifer Hughes said: “Our apprentices are vital to Australia’s energy future. We’re not just providing jobs – we’re developing skilled professionals who can support our transition to renewable energy and strengthen local communities along the way.
“Through comprehensive training and mentorship, we’re committed to preparing apprentices not only for trade qualification, but for long-term, fulfilling careers.
“The Hunter has been at the heart of our energy industry for decades and we look forward to continuing to offer training, skills and job opportunities to local residents as the region continues to play an important role in the clean energy transition.”
Image: Transgrid
Samuel Codrington began his career as an apprentice with Transgrid in 2021. Now 21, he has graduated and works as a Grade 1 Substations Technician based in Newcastle.
Growing up in the Newcastle area, he intends to stay and build his career locally, applying the fundamentals of maintaining Transgrid’s high-voltage network across the region.
“I was attracted to the program by the variety of high-voltage equipment, the diverse work you’re exposed to as an apprentice, and the chance to travel around NSW,” Mr Codrington said.
“Every week brought something new – different locations, new skills and great colleagues. A highlight was being part of the Liddell [Power Station] disconnect project; it was a huge team effort, and I built strong working relationships across the job.”
Jordan Noonan, 20, is a final-year apprentice on Transgrid’s Secondary Systems team in Newcastle. Originally from Branxton, he moved to Newcastle to be closer to work and now gets the opportunity to travel regularly to sites across NSW.
“I chose Transgrid’s apprenticeship for the work-life balance and the chance to travel. Most weeks I’m on the road doing work across various sites across NSW, but Newcastle is home,” Mr Noonan said.
“My advice for future prospective apprentices? Knuckle down and ask heaps of questions. Knowledge is power – and the more you learn, the further you’ll go.”
Amy Longmuir, 22, is a third-year high-voltage Substation Technician at Transgrid’s Newcastle depot. Raised in Nimbin near Byron Bay – where she worked at a local convenience store – she moved to Newcastle to pursue a hands-on trade career.
“I first connected with Transgrid through the women’s pre-apprenticeship program. I’ve always wanted to do a trade – my dad and brothers are tradies – and a hands-on path felt right for me,” she said.
“I’ve had a strong support network here – Transgrid’s Energise [gender equality] program brings women together, and I’ve had many senior female mentors that have backed me at every step, showing there are many career paths across the company.
“The training, learning and people are fantastic. I honestly feel like I won a golden ticket getting this job.”
Transgrid Field Co-ordinator Michael Stemmer leads a 22-strong substations team – including mentoring nine apprentices – coordinating maintenance and upgrade works across the Hunter. His focus is on safe, real-world learning and building confident technicians.
“My philosophy is simple: teach the ‘why’ behind every procedure. When apprentices understand system principles and risks, they make better decisions,” Mr Stemmer said.
“What I look for is curiosity and reliability. If you show up prepared, ask questions and own your work, this team will back you.”
Transgrid’s apprenticeship program offers a clear career trajectory, from initial recruitment, comprehensive training, on-the-job experience, and eventual qualification into trade-specific roles crucial to the delivery of major infrastructure projects.
Roles are offered for Electrical Substation Technician Apprentices, Telecommunications Technician Apprentices and Transmission Line Apprentices.
For more information, visit https://www.transgrid.com.au/careers/apprentice-program/
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