Jake Barlow has always been a go-getter. Kyogle born and bred, he was managing a busy local workshop as a mechanic when he found himself increasingly drawn to the outdoors and craving change. The idea of working in a role that was physically active, community-focused and constantly changing appealed to him. He was drawn to the energy sector’s role in storm response and the chance to be part of something that mattered.

It took two years to build up the courage to make the leap, but in 2021 Jake joined Essential Energy as an apprentice powerline worker. With connections to the local depot and a growing interest in the work, the apprenticeship felt like the right fit. It wasn’t an easy decision, but once he committed, Jake embraced the challenge and the opportunity to learn something completely new. Now, four years on, Jake has been named Essential Energy’s Apprentice of the Year, NSW Training Regional Apprentice of the Year (Northern Region) and was nominated as a finalist for NSW Training State Apprentice of the Year.

Making the change from mechanic to powerline worker turned out to be the right move for Jake. His work has uncovered his love for climbing, and he admits he would choose scaling the pole to change a crossarm over using the bucket any day. Jake enjoys the variety, the physical challenge and the sense of purpose that comes with storm response. He’s found the problem-solving aspect of the job especially rewarding.

“I’ve found it so interesting to learn that there is more than one way to do a job. One of the best parts is rocking up to a task and figuring out which was is the best way based on the conditions and situation that day. Thinking on your feet and discussing it with the crew keeps the job exciting,” Jake says.

However, Jake’s first few years on the job were not without its challenges. In 2022, Lismore was hit with devastating floods, causing widespread loss of homes, infrastructure and power outages. Jake had to navigate assisting with the storm response while also dealing with the damage of his own home and a great deal of loss within his community. Communications were down, conditions were unpredictable, and the team was stretched. The sudden passing of a leading hand at the depot added to the emotional toll, but Jake says those moments helped shape his approach to the work and the people around him.

Jake Barlow, finalist for the Apprentice of the Year NSW Training State Awards.

Throughout his apprenticeship, Jake found the training experience both challenging and rewarding. He loved that the training was mostly practical and the week-long TAFE blocks in Grafton gave him the chance to build strong friendships and learn from others going through the same journey.

He says the shared struggles and support from trainers and depot leaders helped create a sense of camaraderie that made a real difference.

“It was always really grounding to hear directly from the trainers that they too had struggles and found some of the topics hard, but on the other side it’s worth it,” Jake says.

Looking back, Jake says the apprenticeship has helped him grow in ways he didn’t expect. He describes himself as pretty sheltered before starting, but now feels more confident, responsible and aware of the people around him. He’s learned to work as part of a team, to take initiative, and to check in on others.

Jake credits his growth to not just the program but the support of mentors like Sam Daley and trainer Courtney Nelson, who guided him to build both technical skills and confidence. Their mentorship along with the support of his crew, helped shape the person he has become today.

Jake’s exceptional hard work and personal growth haven’t gone unrecognised. His recent accolades reflect not only his technical ability but also the leadership, resilience and teamwork he’s demonstrated throughout his apprenticeship. He admits he didn’t know much about the awards when he was first nominated but says the recognition has been both exciting and humbling.

From responding to natural disasters to mentoring others and consistently stepping up when it counts, Jake has demonstrated the kind of qualities that make a lasting impact across the network.

Looking ahead, Jake is excited to be a part of an industry on the verge of a massive change. With a growing demand for power and new technologies emerging every week, he sees the opportunity to be part of an organisation at the forefront of the energy transition.

For information on our award-winning Apprenticeship Program, visit Apprenticeships.