From learning rope knots and splices to safely climbing power poles, Essential Energy’s 2025 record intake of apprentices has begun building their careers in the energy sector.

This week, our apprentices are energetically taking their first steps through hands-on theory, practical and workplace assessments that will equip them with skills for life as a powerline worker, cable jointer or electrical technician.

In December last year, Essential Energy won at the Australian Training Awards where the apprenticeship program was recognised as a national leader for its innovative improvements in training that benefit their apprentices or trainees and their local community.

The 2025 intake is the largest on record, with 148 field and non-field positions filled across 77 locations such as Goulburn, Grafton, Orange, Parkes, Tamworth and Wagga, as well as other locations in regional NSW and Southern Queensland. Of that, 20 roles are female-identified and three are First Nations-identified.

In line with previous years, there was a high volume of applications, with a 16 per cent increase from 2024.

Currently, there are more than 500 apprentices and trainees at 97 locations across the Essential Energy footprint.

Some of our 2025 intake of apprentices at the Tamworth depot.

Essential Energy’s apprenticeship program remains in high demand for its nationally recognised qualifications and on-the-job experience.

The program is also widely recognised for its high completion rates where 93 per cent of Essential Energy apprentices graduate, compared to a national average of 63 per cent. Importantly, more than 90 per cent have remained with the business after completing their apprenticeship, with one in four promoted into higher level technical and supervisory roles.

Essential Energy has trained more than 1,350 apprentices since 2001, which creates genuine career opportunities across regional, rural and remote NSW. Applications for the next apprentice intake open in April.

Find out more about Essential Energy’s apprenticeship program.