Pilot program sparks new opportunities for NMIT electrical apprentices

NMIT has been selected to trial a new electrical apprenticeship program in 2013, offering individuals the chance to complete their apprenticeship when deemed competent.

The national Managing Apprenticeship Program (MAP) pilot program is an initiative overseen by E-Oz Energy Skills Australia to focus on improving electrical apprentice completion rates in Australia.

EE-Oz is the Industry Skills Council for the energy sector and provides training package advice, leadership and industry intelligence.

“We are delighted to be participating in a new, national pilot within the Electrotechnology industry,” said David Delle-Vergin, Head of Computer Systems and Electrotechnology at NMIT. Candidates who enter the program will receive significant benefits, including an assigned industry mentor to help them stay on track with apprenticeship requirements and be placed on an industry register for employer selection.

The apprenticeship is based on a ‘competency’ based system rather than the traditional ‘time’ based 4-year model, but if additional training is required, support services are available. NMIT was carefully selected to be part of the pilot, which reflects the strength of its reputation in the electrotechnology industry. The institute offers the Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Pre-Apprenticeship) and Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (for apprentices) through its Heidelberg campus.

“NMIT has always taken great pride in being leading innovators in this area and we are always excited to provide the best possible outcomes to all parties involved,” said DelleVergin.

The national pilot is currently assessing candidates interested in an electrical career. Visit www.nmit.edu.au/course_info/apprenticeships/electrical for more details.