Nurturing the future energy workforce through school-based apprenticeships

The Energy Club WA, in partnership with Edith Cowan University (ECU), recently hosted the Next Generation Schools Program Student Expo Day at ECU’s Joondalup Campus – an event that has proudly run for over seven years.

Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA) was thrilled to be part of this event, which attracted more than 300 students eager to explore future career opportunities. The Expo brought together leading energy-sector companies and industry partners to showcase career pathways, cutting-edge technologies, and the skills needed for Australia’s evolving energy landscape.

ASA embraced the opportunity to connect with students early in their career journey. Our team shared insights into how ASA supports apprentices, employers, and industry, while highlighting the diverse apprenticeship pathways powering the energy sector – including electrical, mechanical, instrumentation, engineering, and emerging renewable-energy fields.

One of the most popular topics among students was School-based Apprenticeships (SBAs). Many were excited to learn how they can start training while completing high school. ASA explained that SBAs allow students in Years 10–12 to combine school with paid employment and formal training, giving them a head start toward a full apprenticeship. This pathway continues to grow in popularity across Western Australia, particularly among students seeking hands-on, future-focused careers.

The strong engagement and curiosity shown by students underscored a growing interest in vocational pathways and a desire to understand how practical training can lead to rewarding, long-term careers.

The Next Generation Student Expo Day proved to be an outstanding platform for connecting industry with future talent and raising awareness of apprenticeships and school-based pathways. ASA looks forward to continuing its involvement in events that inspire and prepare Western Australia’s future workforce.