Conpower

When Nia joined CPP in January 2023, she was starting something she had wanted for a long time: a career in the trades. She was also stepping into new territory for CPP Victoria.

Nia became CPP’s first female apprentice and first female blue-collar employee in Victoria, a milestone that would become part of CPP’s history. But for Nia, the focus was simply on learning her trade, building her confidence and making the most of the opportunity.

Almost four years later, Nia has completed her Certificate III in Electrotechnology through CPP’s Dave Evans Apprenticeship Program and is now a qualified HV Electrician.

And she is already looking ahead.

LEARNING THE TRADE

For as long as she can remember, Nia wanted to work in a trade. Joining CPP gave her the opportunity to turn that ambition into a career.

“Growing up, I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in a trade, and taking up this opportunity has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.

“It has given me the chance to pursue something I’ve always wanted while building valuable skills and starting a career I’m genuinely passionate about.”

For Nia, some of the most valuable lessons came from being out on the job, working alongside different people and seeing how a project comes together.

Her time on the CRTS project stands out.

“I got to see the job from start to finish. I also had the opportunity to work alongside different people throughout that job, which was very beneficial for me and my development.”

“Each tradesman shared different knowledge, and I would take the best bits from everyone and develop my own way of doing things.”

That practical experience, combined with formal training and learning from those around her, helped Nia build the skills and judgement needed to become a qualified electrician.

FINDING CONFIDENCE IN THE CHALLENGE

For Nia, one of the most rewarding parts of her apprenticeship has been seeing how far she has come.

She has developed the technical skills to solve problems independently, while becoming more comfortable taking on challenging jobs and responsibilities.

“I’m proud of the confidence I’ve built in myself and my abilities, especially being able to take on challenging jobs that were once outside my comfort zone.

“I’m proud that my apprenticeship has helped me become a more confident, capable and well-rounded person, not just a better tradesperson.”

That growth was supported by people around her who recognised her potential and gave her opportunities to put it into practice.

One of the strongest influences was her mentor, Jamie Ruwoldt.

“He has made a huge impact on my development and was a great mentor to have throughout my apprenticeship.

“Jamie trusted me to take on more challenging jobs, even when they were outside my comfort zone, gave me the confidence to push myself and showed me that he believed in my ability to handle them.”

That trust gave Nia the opportunity to stretch herself, learn by doing and discover what she could achieve.

MAKING HER MARK

Being CPP Victoria’s first female apprentice and first female blue-collar employee is an important part of Nia’s story, but it is her work, attitude and approach that have shaped her career.

She has built her reputation through the work she does, the way she approaches it and the relationships she has built along the way.

Her manager, Ian Hartnett, has watched that progression firsthand.

“Nia has embraced every opportunity to learn and grow throughout her apprenticeship. Her work ethic, professionalism and positive attitude have made her a highly respected member of the team, and it has been rewarding to watch her grow into a confident and capable tradesperson.”

Ian Hartnett

For Nia, being a woman in the industry is not a limitation.

“Being a woman in a male-dominated industry is something to be proud of rather than a limitation.”

And while Nia may be the first female apprentice in CPP’s Victorian section, she is part of a growing group of women building careers in trades across CPP.

In South Australia, electrical apprentice Calista describes a similar experience of finding her place in the industry while being supported to be herself.

“I’ve been supported every step of the way and embraced for exactly who I am.”

Their experiences are different, but the message is shared: a career in the trades can look different for everyone, and there is a place for people who want to learn, contribute and build something for themselves.

BUILDING MORE THAN A WORKFORCE

For CPP, Nia’s story reflects why investing in apprenticeships matters.

With the energy sector entering a period of significant growth, the demand for skilled workers is increasing. For Ian, developing that capability starts with giving people the opportunity to learn from the ground up.

“The industry is on the verge of significant growth, bringing with it an increasing demand for skilled workers.

“Building our workforce from the ground up not only helps address the industry’s skills shortage but also allows us to foster and maintain the strong culture, values and reputation that CPP is known for.”

The Dave Evans Apprenticeship Program gives apprentices practical experience, technical training and exposure to the people and projects that make up CPP’s business.

“It offers the opportunity to develop their skills, be part of something bigger, and build a long-term career.”

Nia is now living that next stage.

QUALIFIED — AND JUST GETTING STARTED

Completing her apprenticeship is just the beginning for Nia.

“I’m excited to be able to work more independently, take on more challenging jobs and use everything I’ve learnt throughout my apprenticeship.”

Looking further ahead, Nia wants to lead and mentor others, helping future apprentices in the same way she has been supported.

“Ultimately, I’d love to become someone within the company who can share my knowledge and experience with the next generation of apprentices while continuing to grow professionally myself.”

It’s a future Ian believes she is well placed to achieve.

“I am excited to see Nia continue to grow and develop within the company and have no doubt she has a bright and successful future ahead with CPP.”

HER ADVICE? GIVE IT A GO.

For anyone considering an apprenticeship, Nia has one piece of advice:

“Give it a go and be willing to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes or step outside your comfort zone, because those are some of the best opportunities to learn and grow.”

It is advice shaped by her own experience.

Over almost four years, Nia has gone from aspiring apprentice to qualified tradesperson, building the technical skills, confidence and experience to take on new challenges.

And while she may not have set out to be a role model, her journey shows what is possible when you are given the opportunity to learn, supported to grow and willing to give it a go. For the next apprentice considering a career in the trades, Nia’s story may be the encouragement they need to take that first step.

Discover more about Apprenticeships at CPP.