First year electrical apprentice, Alicia McCallum is a young woman on a mission with a bright future ahead of her.
The former Robina State High School student is just a few weeks into her Certificate III in Electrotechnology with IDC Solutions Pty Ltd and very much enjoying her new work environment.
Having previously completed a Certificate II in Electrotechnology at the Gold Coast Trade College at Currumbin, the enthusiastic 18 year old always had a pretty good idea of what she wanted to do with her life.
“After I completed my Certificate II it became a passion for me.”
“My father was an electrician for a few years and my uncle is also an electrician in the mines, so I was fairly certain I wanted a career in the electrical industry,” Alicia said.
BUSY At Work Career and Placement Advisor, Michelle Airey said Alicia had been extremely proactive in chasing her dream of becoming an electrician.
“Last year she came very close to gaining a position with Energex but was just pipped at the post. Rather than become despondent she remained very determined and kept in close contact with our Gateway Services team over several months.”
“Finally last month we received a vacancy for an electrical apprentice at IDC Solutions. Alicia came to the interview full of confidence and performed very well.”
“We are delighted that Alicia didn’t give up on her dreams and thrilled to see her excelling in the early stages of her apprenticeship,” Ms Airey said.
Since starting with IDC Solutions Alicia has been learning about cable and fibre optic installation, fault finding and on-the-job safety.
Alicia said she was thankful for the support she had received from BUSY At Work and the training provided by fellow tradesman on the job.
“The staff at BUSY At Work came to my school last year and have been in constant contact with me during the past few months.”
“I am also really grateful for the support from the other electricians. They make sure I know what each job is about and if I have any questions, they are very thorough in their explanations so that I understand the job fully.”
“I like working in a smaller environment. It’s more personalised and I’m able to learn a variety of different skills,” Alicia said.
IDC Solutions National Operations Manager, Martin Lewis said Alicia had all the right qualities to be a good electrician.
“Alicia has a strong work ethic and a great attitude and she will be an excellent fit for our business in Queensland. We employ multiple female staff and firmly believe they have a place in our industry.”
“We are keen to see Alicia make the most of this opportunity and believe she has an excellent career ahead of her,” Mr Lewis said.
BUSY At Work Managing Director, Paul Miles said BUSY was pleased to support local employers who were willing to invest in young people and give people like Alicia an opportunity to work in what was historically a male dominated industry.
“Alicia has demonstrated that she is able to perform at a high level and with the right training and mentoring she will have a bright future ahead of her,” Mr Miles said.
If you’re looking for an apprenticeship, BUSY At Work can help you find one. Contact us on 13 BUSY (13 28 79) or 0421 268 884 (text only).
