When the final results were announced at Annual Connection 2026 in Pukekohe, one of the most rewarding moments belonged to Jacob Linton from Waipā Networks. Taking out top honours in the Cable Jointer Competition, Jacob proved that a blend of thorough preparation, steady focus under pressure, and genuine pride in his craft is a winning formula.
His achievement gives Waipā Networks back-to-back national titles in the Annual Connection Cable Jointer Competition. Zak Ramsey, who supported Jacob at this year’s competition, won the title in 2025.
Representing Waipā Networks, with its proud tradition of strong performances at Annual Connection, Jacob was acutely aware of the standards set by those before him. “There’s an added pressure knowing the history of success Waipā has had at Annual Connection,” Jacob admits. “However, having a great support team and strong preparation through training really helps build confidence going into the competition.”
This was not Jacob’s first time stepping onto the national stage. Having previously competed at Annual Connection in Invercargill in 2023, Jacob returned in 2026 driven by the challenge of pushing himself outside his comfort zone. Entering was an opportunity to test his skills under competitive conditions, pick up new techniques, and learn from fellow industry peers. Jacob has worked through his electricity supply pathway training with Connexis, the National Infrastructure Provider.
He says his biggest challenge through the three days of competition was maintaining a clear mind while tackling unfamiliar joints and terminations he hadn’t frequently worked with in day-to-day operations.
“It was about staying focused, trusting my training, and adapting as I went,” he explains. His strategy for staying calm under pressure was straightforward: “Keep a level head, trust your training, and rely on the experience you’ve built up. Don’t get caught up watching other competitors or worrying about the crowd. Focus on your own work, take it one step at a time, and enjoy the experience.”
Winning the Annual Connection Cable Jointer trophy was a proud moment for Jacob, but he is quick to acknowledge his dad Daniel, who first encouraged him into the trade.
“He was the person who guided me and helped get me into the industry, so being able to share this with him makes it special. It was a great feeling and incredibly rewarding after all the training, preparation, and hard work over the past couple of years.”
In his day-to-day work, Jacob’s motivation comes from the daily satisfaction of working to a high standard with meticulous attention to detail when it comes to safety and reliability.
“I really enjoy the craftsmanship involved in cable jointing,” he says. “I take a lot of pride in the finer details, making sure the work is completed to a high standard, looks great, and functions exactly as it should.”
Looking ahead, Jacob sees a bright future for those interested in taking up a career as a cable jointer or in other areas of the ESI, with demand for skilled workers continuing to grow.
“Cable jointing is a specialised trade with plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and build a rewarding career,” Jacob says. “Be prepared to learn, take pride in your work, and make the most of the experience you gain from those around you.”
Find out more about Connexis Energy programmes, developed with industry to help our learners skill-up and achieve nationally recognised qualifications here.