NIGUP trainees one step closer to promising careers
25 November 2011
NIGUP trainee line mechanics receive their level two, national certificate in electricity supply.
Ten trainees on the North Island Grid Upgrade Project (NIGUP) received their level two, national certificate in electricity supply, which takes them half way to becoming qualified transmission line mechanics.
NIGUP recruited the trainees last year, as part of a programme to lead growth and development in the New Zealand transmission electrical industry. It also provides a sustainable legacy of employment for future projects in New Zealand.
Transpower Alliance project manager Ian Ditchfield said providing an industry related qualification and skill based experience on a project this size, would change the way transmission lines are built in NZ.
“Our trainees are learning new, innovative skills and it has always been a priority of our project to deliver back to the industry people with strong technical skills and experience.
“These trainees will now have opportunities that will lead to lucrative, long term careers,” he said.
Developing a strong safety culture has also been one of the big advantages of the training scheme.
ESITO training coordinator Steve Davies says that there has been a major shift in attitudes of health and safety in the industry over the past five years.
“Building and developing NZ’s own workforce with a commitment to safety is one of the big advantages with new trainee initiatives like this.”
“NIGUP is leading the way in transmission line innovation and safety practices, so it’s great to see that knowledge coming through and filtering back into the industry” he said.
Trainees are rotated through various construction activities on the project, including tower erection, foundations and ARI PAK A dismantling.