Every year at the Connexis Energy Trainee Excellence Awards we celebrate those trainees working in the Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) around the country who demonstrate great willingness to learn, and who are working hard to build themselves a successful career.

Finalises are chosen in five trainee categories, based on nominations from employers. Winners are then chosen in each category, with one winner then named Overall Trainee of the Year.

This year’s Overall Trainee winner was Hugh Thomson, from Counties Energy, who also won Distribution Trainee of the Year.

As well as celebrating the winners of The Connexis Energy Trainee Excellence Awards we’d also like to shine a light on all the finalists, who were nominated by trainers, supervisors and senior executives in their companies for their hard work and commitment – to both their training and their jobs. We look forward to seeing how all of them progress in their ESI careers.

2025 Connexis Energy Trainee Excellence Awards finalists:

Transmission Trainee of the Year

Callum Fowden, Transmission Line Mechanic and Utility Arborist, Ventia

Winner

“I wanted to pursue this career as I love getting outdoors and this job has so many opportunities for seeing new parts of the country. All the opportunities this career comes with were right up my alley.

“A highlight of my training so far has been all the great people I have met along the way and learning all about how the industry works, one of the biggest highlights would be all the great friends I’ve made along the way.

“One of the challenges of the training so far would be figuring out rigging and working out all the rigs at the yard before heading out to site for the day’s task.

“I just love getting out there and giving everything. Whenever there’s something new to try I’m always the first to put my hand up to give it a go.”

Dylan Watson, trainee electrician, Omexom

“I’ve always loved working on computers; taking old broken desktops and combining them to make something that works better than the original version. It translated well into electrical distribution, as we work on lots of protection equipment, transformer control boards, motor control boards and things like that where I get to apply my prior knowledge of fault finding, testing and unleashing my ADHD on wire looming.

“A highlight of my training is being able to see my improvements in cable management and routing on systems I wire. Looking from the first board I wired to the ones I’m wiring now the difference is clear and I’m able to take pride in the systems I wire now.

“The best part of my job is working in a field that can’t accurately be defined as domestic/industrial/distribution. Substation maintenance has us working on a 220kv disconnecter, rewiring the control board for the motor one day. The next day rewiring an office building, installing a new lvac switchboard, and the next wiring s.e.l relays into a new panel, then completing scheduled maintenance and testing on a 350kv dc filter bank.”

Dylan Ngahooro, trainee transmission line mechanic, Omexom

“I previously worked in the industry as a tower structure maintainer and decided I wanted to build my skills and learnings within the transmission industry.

“A highlight of training so far has been my work mates putting in the time to teach me and give me feedback on how to further my skills as a transmission lineman. Since we work on such a broad mix of tasks, it can be tricky to hang on to certain learnings, especially for the ones we don’t do very often but I enjoy the physically demanding and the mental aspects of it.”

Distribution Trainee of the Year

Hugh Thomson, trainee line mechanic, Counties Energy

Winner, and winner of Overall Trainee of the Year, 2025

“I was doing civil work for distribution/transmission and I thought this job looked awesome and interesting with all the climbing and building lines so I decided to give it a go and try to upskill.

“The best part of training is starting to make sense of everything like pole designs, testing and switching; putting all the training and knowledge together while on site or on a shutdown.

It can be a challenge to remember things as there’s quite a lot of different tasks that you might not do everyday, to remember; lots of plants and equipment to learn, as well as knots and rigging – all while under pressure. But I love working with good people at Counties Energy, having armour rod or knot competitions between each other and having a laugh.”

Tom Anderson, trainee line mechanic, Electronet

“I was interested in this job because it was really hands-on, and  needed different skills every day. With this job you’re never in the same place and I love it.

“That’s also been a highlight of my training so far – the diverse work; from stringing wire with a helicopter, to doing low voltage fusses and pillar boxes. I don’t think I could have one highlight the whole career path had been wicked, and I’ve loved working towards being qualified.

“The only challenges I’ve come across through my training would be the paperwork. I’m definitely a more hands on person but thankfully, I’ve been able to seek advice from others and knuckle down to achieve all the written work.

“The best part of my job is being able to wake up and not go work in a factory or McDonalds, but to be able to explore the West Coast and work in a job where you don’t know where you’re going to be the next day.”

Harvey Mitchell, trainee line mechanic, Ventia

In nominating him for the award Harvey’s employers said: “Harvey is known for his unmatched self-motivation and go-getter attitude. He is not afraid to challenge the status quo or respectfully pull up even the most experienced team members when something is not right. Whether he is talking to CEOs, customers, or members of the public, Harvey brings the same level of confidence, clarity, and professionalism.

“What truly sets him apart is his ability to connect with everyone. Harvey engages with the whole team, no matter who you are, making everyone feel heard and valued.”

Harley Farnham, electrician, Buller Networks

“I enjoy hands-on work and wanted a job where I could learn useful skills and help keep the power on. Through training I like seeing my skills improve and being trusted with more responsibility. The challenge has been getting used to the early starts and tough coastal weather, but I love the variety of jobs and locations.”

Traction Trainee of the Year

Robert Ngawharau, traction line mechanic, KiwiRail

Winner

In nominating Robert for the award his employers KiwiRail said he is a mentor to other trainees and takes responsibility for his work and actions. “He communicates clearly with his team to make sure they understand their tasks and plans. He asks questions to avoid mistakes.”

Generation Trainee of the Year

Fiona Glennie, trainee power technician, Meridian Energy

Winner

“I grew up on a permaculture farm with a hybrid battery backed solar/wind set-up which my father installed, so I’ve always been surrounded by power generation, albeit on a far smaller scale.

“My first week in the job I had the chance to peek at the insides of one of the main unit transformers at Manapouri Power Station and I feel pretty lucky to be in the industry at a time when a lot of equipment is being upgraded and refurbished.

“I’ve enjoyed learning how to navigate working with colleagues across different business units. It’s been a new experience working with people I haven’t necessarily met and roles I don’t know well.

“It is pretty incredible to be in a role where my whole job is to learn. I’m very grateful to be in that position while being surrounded by so many colleagues, teams and contractors with many, many years of experience and stories that they are more than willing to share.”

Caitlin Manickum, generation electrical apprentice, Mercury Energy

“I wanted to pursue this career because the idea of electrical work sounded fulfilling and an area for me to exercise my problem solving skills while constantly learning new things.

“One of the highlights of training for me has been the opportunity to be involved in full station overhauls and one the challenges has been understanding all the different systems used in generation.

“The best part of my job is that there are new learning opportunities for me every day and I am fortunate to work with a very supportive team.”

Callum Bryant, operator/maintainer, Genesis Energy

“I wanted a career path that made me think, whilst being able to work with my hands.

“One of the highlights of my training has been being able to see inside Tekapo A during a four-yearly outage. I enjoy being able to make improvements to an old plant and keep it running.”

Advanced Trainee of the Year

Gemma Rose, junior power technician, Empowered Technical Services

Winner

“I was really interested in learning more of the technical side to this industry and seeing where it would take me. A highlight has been the variety of work and the fact there is always something more to learn.

“I really enjoy working with the other people in my company, which has a great culture. We also have many experienced technicians who are always willing to teach and share their knowledge with you.”

Mitch van Waelsden, trainee technician, Mainpower NZ Ltd

“I pursued this role because I wanted to further my understanding and knowledge of the power system as a whole. The highlight of training is applying your new skills to the job, and a highlight of the job is the variation of work and the places you get to see.”

The post Celebrating the ESI’s top trainees appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Over the last three months, Te Ara Tautoko Support Pathway trainee support workshops have been running across the country, offering mentoring and practical support to help trainees progress in their apprenticeships.

Connexis CSAM Amy Young has worked closely with Rotorua Lakes District Council, arranging workshops for their trainees and opening them to other local companies.

Two successful workshops have been delivered so far. The sessions were led by mentor Mark Baldock, who helped make the learning accessible and practical.

Trainees shared how valuable the workshops were:
● “Having a few more courses during the year will be beneficial for everyone – I was able to complete multiple units in one day.”
● “The tutor made every question easy to understand, which made each workbook easy to complete.”
● “The workshops helped me understand the requirements and shorten my answers – I feel more confident moving forward.”

These workshops are part of our ongoing commitment to supporting trainees to succeed, gain skills, and achieve their goals. We look forward to continuing these sessions throughout the year to benefit even more trainees.

For more information on the workshops, including how you or your trainees can get involved, please contact your local CSAM.

The post Connexis trainee support workshops in Rotorua appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Kia ora koutou,
 
Thank you for your continued support as we head toward the end of another big year and rapidly approaching the next stage of changes to the setup of vocational education and training (VET) within New Zealand. We are currently preparing Connexis to transition out of the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST – formally known as Te Pūkenga) and into the Energy and Infrastructure Industry Skills Board (ISB) on 01 January 2026.

Like the other transitions that have occurred since 2021, our focus is on ensuring no interruption to Connexis training programmes and qualifications, and no changes to the services we provide to our learners and employers. We will continue to take new enrolments across all our training programmes in the Civil, Electricity Supply, Telco and Water industries and ensure learners are well supported through to completion of their training programme to attain their qualification.

Our ISB is one of eight being established by the Government, to be gazetted as standard setting bodies, replacing the previous Workforce Development Councils. This is a holding place for Connexis and the other work-based learning divisions exiting NZIST, providing time for industry to take back ownership and leadership of industry training.

As part of industry training returning to industry, we are working with the TEC transition team on the plan for Connexis’ move out of the ISB. As part of this, TEC wants to hear from our customers as to whether you support Connexis continuing as your national training provider and transition into an industry owned and led private training establishment (PTE). As such, we will be coming out to seek written support for this.

You can find more information on the VET Review page on our website.

While the VET changes are a distraction, we continue to deliver our industry focused activities and review and improve our training programmes and delivery.

Connexis has just wrapped up another incredibly successful Annual Connection, the iconic Electricity Supply Industry competition that spotlights the skilled workforce and rewarding careers available. The event was held in Christchurch, and while we entered a state of emergency, everyone managed to pack up safely and there was a bonus having north island line mechanic crews in the south, as some stayed back to help the local companies respond to network faults.

Connexis is also thrilled to announce a new cohort of recipients of the Connexis Outward Bound and Whenua Iti scholarships. We are incredibly proud to offer these scholarships each year, as they provide our future industry leaders with incredible skills they can carry into all areas of their life.

Finally, I’d also like to draw your attention to a life-changing pilot training programme Connexis has been running in partnership with Corrections NZ at Whanganui Prison. This programme puts prisoners through training for the NZ Certificate of Infrastructure Works (level 3). At Connexis we are strong believers in the power education and training can have in changing people’s lives. It’s about giving people from all backgrounds the opportunity to obtain a qualification, feel successful, and take with them tools that will positively impact their future.

As the year comes to a close, I wish you all a safe and happy summer and look forward to working closely with you all in 2026.

Ngā mihi

Kaarin Gaukrodger
Connexis Executive Director

The post A word from our Director – Nov. 2025 appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

They keep the lights on and the jug boiling – now they’re stepping into the spotlight. More than 100 of New Zealand’s best line mechanics and cable jointers are set to show off their world class skills and knowledge as they compete in Annual Connection 2025.

Annual Connection, organised annually by Connexis, the national training provider to the energy sector is a prestigious three-day competition involving a series of skills-based challenges, for line mechanic crews and cable jointers from the country’s electricity supply companies.

The 2025 event is being held at Christchurch’s Canterbury Agricultural Park, 21–23 October, thanks to co-host sponsors Orion, Connetics and EA Networks. It is the largest Annual Connection yet with 16 companies entering line mechanic crews, and 12 cable jointers from nine different power companies.

For the first time the event is also hosting new events including a competition specifically designed for trainee cable jointers, and another aimed at testing the skills of supply industry electrical apprentices.

Connexis executive director Kaarin Gaukrodger says the huge level of interest from power companies around the country is testament to how important Annual Connection is to the Electricity Supply Industry.

“Annual Connection is always extremely well supported when we bring it to the South Island but this year is bigger and better than ever. The Electricity Supply Industry recognises how important this event is to showcase and celebrate the skills and expertise of the people that literally keep New Zealand connected.

“It helps us showcase the challenging and exciting work involved in a career in the Electricity Supply Industry and the skills and experience you can gain through hands-on work-based apprenticeship trades training.”

Annual Connection also opens its doors to schools to give local students the chance to try their hand at some of the skills involved in a career, connect with local employers, and to witness the excitement of skilled competitors in action. “This competition is about more than simply comparing skills and expertise. It is an invaluable opportunity to spotlight our industry, emphasise the importance of electricity safety and industry best practice, and encourage new talent to consider careers in the ESI.

“It’s also an opportunity for our industry to come together and learn from each other in a way that elevates the entire sector for the benefit of New Zealand,” Gaukrodger says.

Each year Annual Connection closes with the Connexis Energy Excellence Awards to celebrate the top competitors as well as the country’s best energy trainees.

“The Excellence Awards are a unique opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and commitment our trainees put in to establish their careers. We often see these winners go on to great success in the industry and share their knowledge and experience with the next generation of trainees,” Gaukrodger says

The Orion Group Chief Executive Nigel Barbour says an important aspect of Annual Connection is that it connects people from right across the ESI. “It also brings a recognition and celebration of excellence within our industry that you don’t often see.

“I think in this industry we often fly below the radar. We’re very good at just getting on with it and not seeking recognition. People know we exist but they don’t necessarily know what we do. Annual Connection is an effective way to grow that awareness, and the more of those people we can encourage to come along to the event the better.”

Connetics CE John Thompson says Annual Connection demonstrates the skills needed to work in the ESI as well as the variety and complexity of the work.

“It shows off the fact that you won’t be doing the same thing every day. I think a lot of people get a buzz out of working with others and the skills on display at Annual Connection show the importance of teamwork and how a good crew works together so everyone succeeds and the job gets done. They also show how success is not just about developing the right technical skills, but the right attitude, behaviour and leadership.”

EA Networks CEO Onno Mulder says Annual Connection is a chance to demonstrate a broad range of opportunities in the ESI to a wider range of people.

“It gives our people the ability to share their knowledge and skills with other frontline teams, and learn from them.”

“From an industry growth perspective, Annual Connection is a chance to demonstrate the broad range of opportunities in the sector to a wider range of people, and show how the work we do makes a positive difference in people’s lives.”

www.annualconnection.co.nz

www.connexis.org.nz

For more information:

Kerri Jackson

Accento Communications

kerri@accento.nz

0220885860

About Connexis

Connexis arranges, delivers, supports, and assesses work-based learning for the infrastructure industries of Civil, Energy, Telecommunications, and Water. Connexis is a national industry training provider and business division of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.

About Orion

From the Rakaia to the Waimakariri, and from Banks Peninsula to Arthur’s Pass, Orion owns and operates the electricity distribution network that powers central Waitaha Canterbury. We deliver electricity to more than 229,000 homes and businesses across rural areas, regional towns, and the City of Christchurch.

Our purpose is to power a cleaner and brighter future with our community. We’re committed to supporting our region’s economic success while meeting the growing demand for electricity, now and in the future.

About Connetics

At Connetics, we are proud to deliver energy solutions to power a cleaner and brighter future.

We’re passionate about designing, building and maintaining electrical infrastructure across Aotearoa – from street lighting to solar construction.

When combined with our project management services, specialist expertise, and supply and logistics capability, we’re uniquely positioned to provide turn-key solutions for our customers across all commercial and industrial spheres.

About EA Networks

EA Networks is a locally owned co-operative network company based in Mid Canterbury.

Our purpose is to enable our region, by delivering smart, connected, and reliable network solutions that support local economic prosperity and growth.

We are committed to remaining a relevant, agile, and customer-focused organisation that meets the region’s energy needs, while enhancing wellbeing, career opportunities and quality of life in Mid Canterbury.

The post PRESS RELEASE: New Zealand’s outstanding electricity supply skills to light up Christchurch appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

A new initiative at Whanganui Prison hopes to help change that and make it easier for some prisoners to navigate the change to life on the outside and create safer communities by helping offenders gain employment after release.

Through the combined efforts of Connexis, a work-based training provider for infrastructure industries, and the Department of Corrections, selected prisoners have been working toward the NZ Certificate of Infrastructure Works (level 3) while in custody at Whanganui Prison.

Connexis trainer Graham Wharepapa visited the prisoners at the Corrections facility regularly to take them through the required training modules. The prisoners had to complete the practical requirements of the course while working within the grounds of the Corrections facility.

The initial pilot course, which finished earlier in 2025, involved five prisoners as well as Principal Industry Instructor, Richie Campbell who went through the training alongside the prisoners and will help lead similar future programmes within the Corrections facility with Graham’s support.

Connexis Executive Director Kaarin Gaukrodger says the organisation is extremely proud of being a part of the Whanganui programme and how well the pilot programme has gone.

“We see first-hand how powerful a tool training and education can be in providing people a sense of achievement and direction,” Gaukrodger says. “It’s been gratifying to see how well the work-based training model has been transported into the prison environment, thanks to the commitment of the Corrections and Connexis staff involved.

“We hope that holding a qualification provides these newly qualified graduates a step-up to getting a job and making a positive new start once they leave the prison.”

Corrections Principal Industry Instructor, Richie Campbell describes the pilot programme as a huge success. He says it coincides well with the facility’s approach of providing programmes that help give the prisoners a strong foundation for safely settling back into the community upon release.

Campbell says the graduating prisoners have all enjoyed the challenge of completing their qualification. “When they’re in the prison’s concrete yard they’re looking at some of the potholes around the yard asking if they can repair the potholes. It’s great to see that the prisoners now have the knowledge of how to repair them.”

“Some of the prisoners have worked in the Civil Industry before, but what this programme does, is it gives them that piece of paper that tells an employer what they can do. It also gives them an understanding of how to safely operate within the Civil Industry and programme which is a priority in all the programmes we offer”.

“Having that qualification should give them a bit of a step up in setting them up for employment on release from prison. Employment can really support people to live crime free by providing them with income, purpose, and community networks.”

One prisoner who graduated said: “What I liked about this course (IWL3) is the variety of skills I have learnt, and the self-confidence I gained from in doing the work in the Civil Construction area. Doing this course has given me a better chance of Release to Work (RTW) and gaining employment once released.”

Another graduate wrote “What I liked about it, was the fact that the tutor had worked in the field most of his life. He was patient and very thorough in his teachings. Also very understanding in our lack of spelling skills. He made sure that before we moved onto another subject that we understood what we had previously learnt.

“What was particularly challenging, was the spelling, and for me, personally, I had done a lot of this work before as a construction labourer. What this course did for me was put things in context and explained to me why I was doing those jobs. Also, although I did a lot of work and had skills in different work areas, I never had the right qualifications for what I was doing – but now I have.”

He added: “I felt good (after completion) because I want to skill myself up for when I get released, so I can give myself a better chance of getting employment on the outside. I now have three different qualifications in different fields of work. So, I have more chances to get employed. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to participate in this course. I very much appreciated it.”

Connexis Area Manager Central Jason Belcher says it’s pleasing to see the success of the pilot programme in Whanganui and how it’s been supported by different parties.

“It’s been great to see the support the programme has had, and to see these guys graduate with their certificates.”

Campbell says the graduation ceremony is a special moment for all those involved in training programmes. “Seeing these guys receive the first qualification they’ve achieved is special.”

www.connexis.org.nz

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Annual Connection 2024 winning cable jointer, Taylor Simmonds from Omexom in Auckland is gearing up to defend his title at the 2025 event at Christchurch’s Canterbury Agricultural Park, 21-23 October.

“I’ve prepared differently this year. Last year I didn’t know what to expect but this year I know what I need to do – and I’ve trained accordingly which I hope has helped.”

“I definitely feel more pressure this year as it feels like I’ve got more to lose. And, being in the South Island I’ll get to go against a whole different set of jointers which will be good competition.”

This year’s competition is particularly important to Taylor. “My best mate Sam Johnson was meant to come down this year and compete, but early in the year he lost his battle with cancer. I wanted to come down and compete in honour of him and try to take out first place again.”

Taylor believes the secret to his success at last year’s event was the backing he had from Omexom and support from his mates who came to see him compete. “I got a week off to get ready and train. I was very grateful that my company could sacrifice that time. I really appreciated it.”

Aside from his win, a highlight of attending Annual Connection last year for Taylor was the opportunity to meet other people working in the same industry. “It’s a very niche industry and getting to bond and grow with fellow cable jointers and line mechanics was great.

“I love attending Annual Connection because I get to be a part of an event that really recognises and appreciates what we all do to keep the power on and showcase how we do it safely and efficiently.”

The post Back to win appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Phil has been a judge in almost every Annual Connection line mechanic competition since it was resurrected at the Hamilton event in 2002, stepping aside only once in 2003 to manage a competing crew for Otago Power Services Ltd. Phil was also the recipient of the 2016 Contribution to Industry Training Award at the Connexis Energy Excellence Awards, handed out at the close of the competition each year.

“It’s been an absolute privilege to be asked to judge. Being up close with the teams as they showcase their knowledge, skills and expertise is enthralling to say the least and it’s heartening to see such dedication on display from across the country.

“It’s also great to watch competitors who started as trainees in the comps come back a few years later as team leaders. It’s really good to see people grow and develop within the Industry.”

Phil says the camaraderie between the competitors and the judging team as well as organisers is another highlight of Annual Connection. “I’ve made lifelong friends that I’ll always treasure.”

When he’s on the field judging, Phil says safety is always top of the list of what he looks for in competing teams. “Are the teams consistently applying best work practices and safe techniques?  How good is the team lead? How effectively do they communicate with each other? Those all go a long way in determining how successful the team will be overall.

“Problem solving and innovation that produces safe outcomes is always welcome.”

Another key factor in successful teams will be how they look after the trainee line mechanic on the crew, ensuring they’re constantly supervised and undertaking tasks within their capabilities.

“As judges, we are looking for the best of the best and scoring between the teams is always close, so it’s important that we scrutinise each team closely and consistently.”

When it comes to things that can catch even experienced teams out, Phil says it tends to be the way some pressure can make routine, everyday tasks suddenly seem more complicated than they should be.

Phil says Annual Connection is a highlight of each year for him personally, but believes it has ongoing importance for the Electricity Supply Industry.

“We provide an extremely important function of everyday life for Kiwis. So much hinges on being able to provide a safe, reliable and efficient electricity supply to our communities.  Being able to showcase the talents of the people who do this work is immense. It recognises their dedication and passion as well as exemplifies what ‘good’ looks like in regards to working safely. 

“On top of that, competitors are able to network with each other, see different plant and equipment in action, and talk directly with suppliers. It all creates plenty of opportunities for improvement for individuals and companies that they normally can’t easily get access to.”

Phil’s last bit of advice for 2025 competitors is pay attention to the details on competition days. “Trust your training and each other, but also, from the get-go, read the event brief carefully and thoroughly. There is more information on these sheets than most teams realise.”

The post Annual Connection: a judge’s view appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

The first quarter of 2024 has included some reshuffling within our operating environment following the government’s announcement that it intends to disestablish Te Pūkenga.

However, the key “need to know” from that process is that Connexis will continue to deliver infrastructure training for apprentices and trainees throughout New Zealand as we always have with no disruption to our trainees.

As part of our general business, it is exciting to announce the launch of three new programmes developed in partnership with our employers to meet evolving needs of industry. We are also calling for feedback to support the review of the Site Supervisor qualification and ask that you complete the four-minute survey to provide your feedback on what is important to you to include in your industry’s site supervisor qualification.

The capability of onsite supervisors can have a huge impact on performance and productivity, making this qualification review important not just to the success of your people, but your business and investment in training.

Working with industry on new, improved programmes is just one way we support both learners and their employers. Please check the support links below, to make sure both you and your trainees are aware of the support options, financial and pastoral, that are available, or talk to your Customer Service Account Manager (CSAM) for details.

We are also thrilled to again offer Outward Bound Scholarships in 2024 to help further grow the leadership capability of those in our infrastructure industry. It’s the second year we have offered these scholarships with those who’ve completed the programme reporting important lessons in communication, collaboration, mediation, and managing teams through difficult situations, as well as building trust and empathy. If you have a team member who you think would thrive with leadership training, please encourage them to apply for a placement.

These scholarships are thanks to a grant provided by the Infrastructure Education and Training Charitable Trust.

Throughout 2024, as the future of industry training and the system we operate within becomes clearer, Connexis is committed to keeping you informed and up to date with any operational changes. To keep updated as changes occur, we have setup a landing page here.

In the meantime, if you have concerns or queries please don’t hesitate to reach out to your CSAM.

Finally, we wish you all a safe and happy Easter.

Kaarin Gaukrodger

Executive Director, Connexis

The post A Word From Our Director — March 2024 appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

“Here I am now, doing exactly that job,” she says.

The biggest challenge for Courtney so far has been that she started the role without an electrical background, “so it can take me a little bit longer to pick up on some of the switching and operations within the network”. Aside from that Courtney hasn’t looked back, making the most of the training and support she’s received on her road to qualification.

“One of the highlights has been having a supportive and patient team around me to help me, and encourage me to push myself to keep learning and progressing with my training.”

As a senior faults coordinator it is Courtney’s job to monitor and manage faults with tasks including: issuing issue work authorities and restricted area entry permits; dispatching faults to a contractor and monitoring them so they’re attended in a timely manner; closing fault reports once completed; writing up switching for planned outages, issuing live line permits on the network and assisting network controllers in running switching with contractors.

“I love the challenge this role brings. Having come from an administrative role with no electrical background means there’s been a lot to learn, but no two days are ever the same.” Courtney says, who plans to continue her training to become a full-time network controller.

“Through the training I’ve enjoyed the knowledge and skills I’ve gained in the electrical industry, and the new systems I’m now confident in using.

“It means a lot to me to accomplish being the first woman to achieve this qualification in New Zealand, and set a standard not only for other women but for me. I can achieve anything I set my mind to.”

Courtney’s message to other young women – or anybody considering a change to a career in electrical trades is: “Go for it. As you have the willingness to learn there is always someone
willing to help you achieve your goals.”

The post Powering dreams as a Senior Faults Coordinator appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Kylie Bourke has come a long way since starting her civil construction career 26 years ago, in accounts administration. “I basically started doing the dishes and making the coffee!”

Thanks to a combination of training, hard work and pushing herself, Kylie is now a project manager for Higgins Contractors Ltd in Whangarei, responsible for establishing and managing maintenance contracts, along with any other projects that pop up in the North. One of the biggest projects she has worked on was setting up a 25-year maintenance contract for the Puhoi to Warkworth motorway project.

She is also the chairperson for Civil Contractors NZ (CCNZ) Northland. Along the way she has qualified in 2022 she gained NZ Certificate Infrastructure Works Contract Management L5 with Connexis.

While in that first job in Auckland, Kylie started planning for a career in civil construction and setting herself some goals, having decided she no longer wanted to be the person making the coffee in meetings.

She loves the variety of her current role and has a long-lasting love for the industry as a whole.

“I just fell in love with the people in this industry. I did leave it for a year or so about 12 years ago but I really missed the camaraderie and the people. There’s nothing quite like it.

“I tried engineering for a while and didn’t enjoy it. Then I realised I was quite good at the contract side of things so started down that road. I love that there’s no such thing as a typical day and usually your day ends up looking completely different to what you thought it would be.”

Though she works in a male-dominated industry, Kylie says she’s now used to the different ways her team communicates – and she grew up around civil construction via her dad who was a bulldozer driver, which helps.

“There were times early on when the guys might say something that would upset me. But not anymore. I just realised they didn’t mean anything personal about it. They’re just trying to teach you, and they just communicate differently.”

For other women considering civil construction Kylie’s advice is simple: “Just give it a go. If you don’t like it, try something else. Think of it like trying new food; you’ll have no idea if you like it until you try it.”

As part of her role, Kylie has been a mentor for other women in the wider civil contracting business and has loved being able to help and encourage others to succeed. She is also proud of her role as chairperson for CCNZ in Northland, which came after one of those nudges out of her comfort zone.

“Someone suggested I go along to a CCNZ meeting, just to get a different perspective of the industry and I really enjoyed it. I love that everyone might have a different logo on their shirt, but they’re all dealing with the same things.”

After helping out with events, Kylie took the plunge and successfully ran for first to be part of the executive team, then vice-chair and then the chairperson role (Kylie was the first female in Northland to hold this role). Her goal has been to boost meeting attendance numbers which is succeeding nicely. “To me the biggest benefit is being able to network with others in the industry and you can only do that well if there’s lots of people.”

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