ADVANCED POWERTECH APPRENTICESHIP PATHWAY
Powering Capability. Accelerating Futures.
The Advanced PowerTech Apprenticeship Pathway (APAP) is an innovative, industry-led programme developed by WEL Networks and Connexis to accelerate the development of skilled power technicians for New Zealand's electricity sector.
Created in response to growing workforce demand and an ageing technical workforce, the pathway provides a structured, supported route for apprentices to progress into specialist technical roles faster, while maintaining industry and educational standards.
Designed for employers who want to attract, develop and retain high-potential talent, the programme combines practical workplace and cohort-based off-job learning with dedicated learner support, leading to the achievement of nationally recognised qualifications.
Why the pathway was created
Electricity networks across New Zealand are facing increasing demand for specialist technical capability.
The Advanced PowerTech Apprenticeship Pathway was developed to:
- Grow the future electricity workforce
- Increase the number of qualified power technicians
- Create a clearer pathway into specialist technical roles
- Support succession planning and knowledge transfer
- Help network operators develop capability faster.
By bringing learners, employers and industry together, the programme supports the long-term sustainability of New Zealand's electricity infrastructure workforce.
How it works
Participants remain employed while progressing through a structured learning programme that combines:
- On-job learning and practical experience
- Connexis work-based learning and assessment
- Dedicated tutor support
- Cohort-based learning
- Block course delivery
- Industry-aligned technical development.
Learners work towards:
New Zealand Certificate in Electricity Supply (Level 4) - Electrical Trade
and
New Zealand Diploma in Electricity Supply (Level 5) - Power Technician
Benefits for employers
The pathway helps employers:
- Develop future technical specialists from within their workforce
- Build capability in a structured and consistent way
- Support succession planning
- Improve employee engagement and retention
- Reduce the time required for learners to progress into specialist technical roles
- Access a programme designed specifically for the electricity sector.
Benefits for learners
Participants benefit from:
- A clear career pathway into specialist technical work
- Nationally recognised qualifications
- Paid employment while learning
- Dedicated support throughout the programme
- Opportunities to learn alongside peers from across the sector
- Accelerated progression into advanced technical roles
- Develop strong professional networks.
Express your interest
We are seeking expressions of interest from electricity sector employers who want to support and develop the next generation of Power Technicians.
Whether you are looking to build capability within your organisation, strengthen succession planning, or provide career development opportunities for existing employees, we would like to hear from you.
Register your organisation's interest and help shape the future of New Zealand's electricity workforce.