The Finocchiaro CLP Government has welcomed 10 new apprentices and two new trainees beginning their career with Power and Water.
An innovative approach to recruitment has seen the new cohort join five new graduates, plus 28 apprentices, seven graduates, eight business trainees and one water operation trainee who are already part of the Power and Water team across the Northern Territory.
Power and Water partners with GTNT Group to host apprentices and trainees, with the partnership spanning more than 30 years.
This year, there were more than 400 applications for the Power and Water roles.
Minister for Essential Services Steve Edgington said new talent meant "fresh ideas, different approaches, increased skills and innovative outlooks for a brighter Territory".
"This is not only excellent for an organisation like Power and Water, but for the Northern Territory as the CLP Government continues to do things differently and bring the spark back into the economy," he said.
"Power and Water is critical to all Territorians, which is why we're investing in its future-building a skilled workforce to sustain it for generations to come."
Launched last year, the new recruitment process at Power and Water is part of a strategic initiative to continuously build and maintain a high level of skilled, in-house expertise.
Shortlisted apprenticeship and trainee candidates participate in an assessment centre, where they are evaluated through group activities, individual practical tasks and written exercises. This gives a holistic view of their strengths and skills.
Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey, said: "Our Government's focus is to develop local talent and build our trades sector across the Territory to rebuild the economy."
Mrs Hersey added: "We're reforming secondary education to create better career pathways to real jobs, by providing more school-based apprenticeships and vocational training opportunities in schools."
Cody Stamp is joining Power and Water as an apprentice in underground cable joining. Born and bred in Darwin, the 18-year-old is keen to learn new things and work with his best mate, Riley Shortt.
"We've known each other since day care. We play footy on weekends, go fishing and hang out, and now we've got our first job together," said Cody.
"When we both applied for the training day, we promised each other we wouldn't put down for the same job.
"We're both stoked about working for Power and Water and that we get to share the next chapter of our lives together as apprentices."
Amy Ferguson is realising her high school dream. She has joined the Power Services team in Darwin as an electrical apprentice. Her partner is an electrician, and he inspired her to apply.
"I've been working in administration and when I saw this opportunity come up, I was really excited to apply and get my foot in the door," said Amy.
To learn more about Power and Water's apprenticeship, traineeship, and graduate opportunities, visit website here.
