How a Free TAFE pre apprenticeship course can spark your electrical career

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Holmesglen student Taylor Ouellette says the challenges of 2020 were a catalyst for her decision to start an electrical pre-apprenticeship and exciting new trades career.

As someone who likes trying new things, Taylor was drawn to the UEE22020 Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) for its practical training and pathway to employment or further study.

“I always had a passion for working with my hands and working with tools, I have a lot of friends in different trades and seeing what they were able to do inspired me.

“I love to learn new things and challenge myself.”

A Holmesglen award-winner, Taylor used her pre-apprenticeship to start an electrical apprenticeship and gain on-the-job experience. Now an apprentice working in industry, she is excited about her flourishing new career.

What can you learn with an electrical pre-apprenticeship?

The UEE22020 Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) is an ideal entry point for people wanting to gain electrical industry knowledge. This includes an understanding of lighting, general power, fire protection and security, robotics, instrumentation, optical data and voice systems, electrical motors and control systems.

“Having the pre-apprenticeship under my belt helped me massively, as most employers are looking for someone who is currently studying their pre-apprenticeship or has already completed it.

"When I was searching for a job, it showed my employer that I knew what I was applying for and was eager to get my foot in the industry.”

Electrotechnology pre-apprentices learn how to work safely, fix and secure electrical equipment, undertake environmentally and sustainable energy sector procedures, and other important skills to work confidently in the industry.

Taylor says these skills have already helped her with her electrical career.

“I love the number of new things I learn every day. There are so many different tasks you get to do which broaden your skills.

“I use these skills every single day in class and on site.”

Why is a pre-apprenticeship a good pathway into an electrical apprenticeship?

A pre-apprenticeship gives learners an insight into the industry in which they want to work and helps build a foundation of skills useful for work during an apprenticeship.

The UEE22020 Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) can lead to further training opportunities that may include apprentice electrician, electrical fitter or air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic.

"The opportunity to do an electrotechnology pre-apprenticeship was one of the best decisions I ever made. It was a sneak-peek into what my day-to-day trades life would be like, and if I would enjoy it.”

Taylor’s advice for future pre-apprentices

“If you are interested in the electrical trade, but not 100 per cent sure if it is the path for you, studying your pre-apprenticeship is a great option as it gives you a taste of the industry.

“It’s an amazing industry, the people are some of the kindest I have ever had the pleasure to meet, and you will make friends for life; alongside doing a job you enjoy doing every day.”

Find out more about our Free TAFE electrical course and how to apply.

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