Apprentice spotlight: Blake’s building a career in clean energy

When Blake left school in Year 10, he knew the classroom wasn't where he wanted to be. After a short time working as a bricklayer's labourer, he began a Certificate III in Engineering, Fabrication Trade, launching a career in Australia's growing clean energy sector.

"I wanted a lifestyle that a trade can offer. Good money, stability, and the chance to travel around the world once I'm qualified," Blake said.

Now working across workshop and project environments, Blake is developing his welding skills while contributing to major infrastructure projects, including the Snowy Hydro scheme.

"So far, I have been learning MIG and TIG (welding processes). In my spare time, I also spend time welding to try and build my skills."

Before starting his apprenticeship, Blake knew very little about the clean energy industry. Since then, he has gained hands-on experience fabricating piping and structural components used on large scale energy projects, while continuing to build his confidence and technical skills.

Like many new apprentices, Blake faced challenges during his first year. Adjusting to long working weeks and the expectations of a highly regulated industry took time.

"One of the biggest adjustments was getting used to the long hours. Jumping straight into 70 hour weeks was tough."

He developed new routines, asked questions, and relied on guidance from experienced tradespeople and his father to help him settle into the role.

"I made sure to ask questions, follow my tradespeople, and my dad, he was a big help as well. I found that making sure to listen and eat well has helped. Since starting, things have definitely gotten better."

Throughout his apprenticeship, Blake has been supported by Apprenticeship Support Australia through its Mentoring and Personal Support Services (MPSS). Regular check-ins and practical guidance helped him navigate training enrolment, understand government support programs, and complete the administrative requirements associated with his apprenticeship.

When questions or challenges arose, Apprenticeship Support Australia worked with Blake to clarify next steps and connect him with the right support, helping him stay focused on developing his skills and completing his training.

Blake hopes to continue building his qualifications and experience after completing his apprenticeship. He would like to work on remote projects, gain further certifications and, one day, step into a leading hand or supervisor role where he can share his knowledge with future apprentices.

Interested in a future in clean energy? Get in touch with our team and discover the support available to help you succeed.