Two TasTAFE-trained apprentices awarded Brighte Women in Energy Scholarships

Two TasTAFE-trained electrotechnology apprentices have gained scholarships recognising their commitment to study and interest in further developing their knowledge of renewable energy.

Apprentices Chey Sullivan from NECA Education and Careers hosted by Contact Electrical and Erin Kingston from Derwent Electrical, were today awarded Brighte Women in Energy Scholarships to help them further their careers in the industry.

The two scholarships have been awarded in collaboration with TasTAFE, which provides Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician training.

The Brighte Women in Energy Scholarships are an extension of the Brighte’s partnership with the Tasmanian Government and are aimed at supporting the growing local green energy sector.

Valued at $3,350, this includes assistance with the costs of the training course and funding for the first year of the Clean Energy Council’s accredited solar installer fees.

Chey Sullivan, a fourth-year apprentice with NECA Education and Careers hosted by Contact Electrical, said receiving the scholarship is the realisation of a dream.

“Studying a course in renewable energy was always something that I wanted to pursue. With Government mandates and procedures moving to a cleaner, greener state, I think new energy jobs represent an opportunity to be at the forefront of some of the most exciting technological enhancements.””

Brighte Founder and CEO Katherine McConnell knows from experience how important it is to create pathways for pioneering women to enhance their career journey as well as those for future generations.

“To meet our ambitious net zero targets, we’re going to need thousands of electricians skilled up to help power the green revolution – and many of those must be women.”

TasTAFE CEO, Grant Dreher, said TasTAFE was proud to support the Women in Energy Scholarships.

“We are starting to see more women taking up apprenticeships in traditional trades, but there is still work to do. We are working with industry and businesses such as Brighte to proactively encourage more women into trades.”

Mr Dreher said the scholarship’s focus on clean energy aligned with the direction TasTAFE was heading and aligned with Tasmanian and Australian Government priorities.

“We’ll continue to work closely with industry in providing contemporary experiences for our learners, particularly through our Water and Energy Trades Centre of Excellence,” Mr Dreher said.