Instead Azra Wenzlick pivoted toward training as a line mechanic, following in the footsteps of both her father and grandfather. 

“I actually knew about the industry because my granddad, back in the day, was a line mechanic, and then also my dad was a line mechanic. I really enjoy working with other people and having a laugh. It makes the day go by so much quicker,” she says. “Being a team leader does come with a lot more responsibility and pressure because the buck stops with you, but I enjoy that. I’m naturally quite assertive, so I think I fall into that kind of role anyway. Even when I was a line mechanic I was leaning toward this kind of role anyway.” 

Azra, who completed her line mechanic apprenticeship through Connexis and was a member of the Connexis Ultimit first all-women line mechanic crew at Annual Connection, says there are still challenges that come with working in a male-dominated field, and she’s passionate about supporting other women to success. 

“I can’t sugarcoat it and say: ‘It’s fantastic. Everyone loves me all the time.’ I’ve been doing this for quite a while now and there are times that I still feel like I have to prove myself with some people. The people around me aren’t like that, but you do still feel it on site with other people or subcontractors onsite.” 

The most important aspect of having women on a crew is to remember they don’t expect to be protected or treated differently, she says.  

“Sometimes you get guys, who are actually trying to be respectful and helpful, say ‘oh that’s too heavy for you’ or something and want to help, but we actually can and want to do it ourselves. I see both sides, but none of us have chosen this job because we want others to help us through it. We want to stand on our own two feet, and have the chance to show we can do it. 

“Theres a balance in dealing with that between being assertive and being too aggressive. I’m still learning that!” 

She adds that it’s also important to acknowledge the support and confidence boosts she’s had from the men she’s worked with through each stage of her career so far. 

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the men in my company who have backed me and taught me everything I know, especially my manager, Warren. He’s the one who pushed me to do things like Annual Connection, and to just be the best I can be. He created an environment for me to thrive in.”  

Azra’s main piece of advice for any young person considering training as a line mechanic is to make sure they’re enjoying the work. “If you don’t love it at the start you’re probably never going to enjoy it because we do some extreme hours and work in some extreme conditions at times. 

“But I actually think it’s a fantastic and underrated field to work in,” she says. “I love the versatility of it. Once you have a qualification, there’s so many ways you could go with it. We work in beautiful places every day. We work outdoors, and you’re constantly moving, so I think it’s really good for your mental health as well as your physical health.” 

There is also a huge amount of satisfaction to be had from a job well done, she adds. “We’ve had some pretty big storms up in Auckland, where we’ve gone in where everything’s been flattened. By the end of the day, with a few crews working, we have everything back up and running and people are out saying thank you. That’s really satisfying because you can really see what you’ve achieved.” 

The post Leading the way appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Gemma, 28, is a Power Technician with Empowered Technical Services in Waikato, where she’s been for the past two years working in high-voltage (HV) and Medium Voltage (MV) substations. Gemma has completed the NZ Certificate Electrical Supply – Power Technician (L5) through Connexis and, in 2025, was named Advanced Trainee of the Year in the Connexis Energy Trainee Excellence Awards.

Gemma, who entered the electricity supply industry (ESI) as an apprentice electrician, says she never turned back once she discovered how much she loved the work in substations.

“Once I was there I saw a lot of opportunities to further my training. The learning never actually stops.”

That work includes tasks such as relay protection, acceptance, functional, primary and secondary injection testing of high voltage (HV) assets such as circuit breakers, current transformers (CTs), voltage transformers (VTs), and power transformers, ensuring that all equipment meets strict industry standards prior to energisation.

Gemma is particularly passionate about making sure people know there is more to a career as an electrician than working on residential, commercial or industrial buildings.

“There is a general shortage of workers in the supply industry, and people just don’t know there’s this whole flipside to the industry with lots of other avenues you can go down like working in the medium voltage and high voltage sectors.

“I just happened to fall into it, and now I’m never leaving!”

Gemma says the biggest hurdle to completing her level 5 qualification was balancing work, which often requires her to be away, with completing her training, as well as her love of sports and finding time for friends and family.

“Your level 5 Power Technician qualification comes with a big portfolio of work you have to complete, which is difficult to stay on top of at times. It comes down to carefully managing your time, and having good communication with my bosses at work and my sports teams to fit it all in.”

Her biggest piece of advice for others completing the course is to be diligent about keeping a written diary of everything they are doing as part of their job, as they do it. “Even if you do it monthly rather than weekly. The course requires you to have an annual work record, and it’s really hard to think back over the year at the end of it, and remember what you’ve done.

“It might seem frustrating and hard to find the time to do it, but you’ll be grateful you did.”

Has Gemma’s story inspired you to check out a career in infrastructure? Girls with Hi-Vis is running across the country this month, find out more and register your interest in attending here

Find out more about our Connexis Energy qualifications, developed with industry to help our people skill up and achieve nationally recognised qualifications here

The post Not your everyday electrician appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

For Cathrynn Schwalger (Pictured above second from left, top row), a 28-year-old, HV trainee electrician for Omexom, the Connexis Outward Bound scholarship offered the opportunity to step outside her comfort zone and push herself to achieve new things.

Cathrynn, who has been training through Connexis with Omexom for the past two years, first heard about the Outward Bound scholarship through another trainee. “I remember students from when I was in high school doing this course and they said they really enjoyed it.

Before I went I thought it involved a lot of physical activity, like a sports camp. That was partly why I wanted to apply for the scholarship, so I can have some fun playing some sports but I also wanted to apply because I saw the course was based around leadership and that is something I really wanted to grow strong in, especially in an industry dominated by males. I wanted to make sure I had the ability to be heard in a room full of experienced workers.”

Cathrynn says her time at the five-day Outward Bound Professional programme helped her find that confidence she wanted.

“Firstly, I learned that Outward Bound was more than a sports camp! The programme taught me the importance of taking risks and seizing opportunities to challenge myself.

“I am a very quiet, observant person which was noticed by the instructors. They gave me advice on how I can enhance my skills to grow my leadership. They are all things I would love to apply in my work life like speaking up and challenging myself.”

The biggest challenge of the course for Cathrynn came in the middle of the course.

“That was the self-reflection challenge. Being in a space with no distraction and  no way to tell time. It made me think deeply and actually focus on myself. But getting through that was also a highlight of the course.

“I felt I overcame all my doubts and fears once I had completed it. Another highlight I enjoyed was meeting the others in my group. We all held different types of leadership skills but all had a way of communicating smoothly with each other.”

Cathrynn says she loves working in her trade, because it’s hands-on and allows her to actively engage with her work. She also values the opportunities, like the Connexis Outward Bound scholarship, to grow.

“ I value the abundant opportunities there are to upskill, learn something new, and continuously expand my knowledge in a field that is both challenging and rewarding.”

She also highly recommends the Outward Bound Professional programme. “Definitely take up the opportunity to do the Outward Bound course, it can change you for the better.”

• For the past three years Connexis has offered scholarships each year to learners to take part in the five-day Outward Bound Professional course. The aim of these scholarships is to help grow an infrastructure workforce in New Zealand that has strong, visionary leadership for the future. The Outward Bound course is structured for current and aspiring leaders of any industry by testing resilience, adaptability, confidence and self-awareness through a series of activities. These scholarships have been possible through a grant to Connexis from the Infrastructure Education and Training Charitable Trust.
• Keep an eye out for more information on upcoming scholarship opportunities for 2026 at www.connexis.org.nz/scholarships.

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As the country’s top energy sector workers show off their world-class skills at a national competition event in Christchurch next month, two young local women are making their mark.

More female competitors are making their presence felt at Annual Connection each year, and this year is no exception with a record number of women registered to take on the challenges at the 2025 event in Christchurch.

For the first time the cable jointing competitions will feature a landmark three female competitors, including two from host sponsor EA Networks; Chloe Guthrie, entered in the main cable jointing competition and Tia Fasi, who will be competing in the new Annual Connection trainee cable jointing competition.

The experience will be a first for both women, and they’re working hard to prepare by tapping co-workers who’ve previously competed for their best tips and advice.

“One of my fellow cable jointers at EA Networks had been a judge and competitor himself and was explaining the competition to me. I thought it would be fun and a great learning opportunity,” says Chloe, who joined EA as an apprentice cable jointer in 2022, and qualified in May this year through Connexis. “I’m having training moments with fellow workers who have been in the competition themselves, and I’m constantly working on my techniques on day-to-day jobs.”

Tia, who began her cable jointing apprenticeship at EA in mid-2024 through Connexis, says while the thought of competing at Annual Connection is “quite daunting” she is getting plenty of support from those around her.

“Everyone has been very forthcoming with their own experiences; the likely skills and knowledge I’ll need and the overall structure of the competition. I’m confident they’ll provide me with anything I’ll need. I’ll just try my best,” she says. “I’m looking forward to the learning experience and the challenge I’ve set for myself.”

Tia first heard about cable jointing as a career while completing a pre-trades course after leaving school with plans to become an electrician. “I saw the cable jointers in their workshop doing what I now know was a live joint. That’s how I became aware of cable jointing.

“It was the physicality and utter complexity of the work that appealed. I had absolutely no idea what they were doing but I was instantly enticed,” Tia says. “I honestly love everything about the job now I’m doing it. I thoroughly appreciate the opportunity to have such variety in a job whilst having the ability to learn new skills and do many hands-on tasks.”

For Chloe, cable jointing was also a career option that was new to her when she discovered it, though she was familiar with the work of EA Networks through her dad, who also works for the company. “I never once heard of a cable jointer growing up. I mostly only knew of linesmen, but I wanted a hands-on job and to get into a good trade.

“I started by doing work experience at EA Networks in cable jointing and loved it right away, so I wanted to keep coming back and learning more.”

The things Chloe loves most about her job are the work ethic and technique required. “I love making terminations clean and like pieces of art. I also love having the ability to work outside and be travelling around mid-Canterbury while learning about my job and electricity every day. It’s good to feel a sense of accomplishment leaving work knowing the job you did that day was important.”

Chloe’s advice for other young people, particularly women, considering cable jointing as a career option is to give it a try.

“If you love outdoors and getting your hands dirty, have a strong personality and can deal with some male banter, cable jointer is a good start.

“As a woman you might need to learn some techniques to make things work for you as we don’t have the same strength as others, but I’ve loved learning and becoming part of a team and showing that girls can fit in and do the same jobs as men.”

Tia says she would definitely recommend giving cable jointing a try to anybody considering it. “I genuinely love my job despite only being over a year in and would have nothing but good things to say about my experience. Every job has its difficulties and challenges, but the reward is worth the risk. Take the jump and give it a go, what’s the worst that could happen.”

And to any other young female cable jointers wanting to compete in Annual Connection in the future, Tia’s advice is to go for it. “If you’re given the opportunity, take it. The worst that can happen is you come last, but the experience is what matters.”

Chloe agrees: “You are challenging yourself and showing off techniques you have learnt. You can do whatever you put your mind to – and remember competing will be a great learning experience.”

• Annual Connection, managed by Connexis with 2025 sponsors Orion, EA Networks and Connectics, is a unique three-day event, bringing together cable jointers, line mechanics and industry stakeholders from around New Zealand. The event consists of a series of competitions designed to showcase the skills and knowledge of workers in our Electricity Supply Industry.
• Annual Connection 2025 will be held at Canterbury Agricultural Park on 21-23 October.
• https://annualconnection.co.nz/

The post Young Ashburton women cable jointers taking on the best in NZ appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

What was meant to be a temporary job has turned into a fulfilling career path for Kaitlyn Newsome.

Kaitlyn’s civil construction career began when she was working for a labour hire company supplying staff to HEB Construction. She decided she’d like to give the trade a go herself.

Kaitlyn, who has also worked as a prison officer, has been with HEB Construction in Waikato since August 2019, working in several different roles. She completed her New Zealand Certificate in Infrastructure Works (Level 3) and, without hesitation, enrolled in the New Zealand Certificate – New Zealand Apprenticeship in Infrastructure Works (Civil) (Level 4) – Road Maintenance Strand, which she completed in December 2024.

But Kaitlyn, who won the Waikato region CCNZ Apprentice of the Year last year, isn’t done with her training yet. She has now enrolled in the New Zealand Diploma in Civil Engineering.

That’s quite a shift in thinking from when she started at HEB. “When I first started, I didn’t see myself in the job for more than six months. I intended to use this industry as a stepping stone until I secured another job in an entirely different line of work.

“That has changed massively. I’m still here six years later and have achieved way more than I thought I ever could. I’ve become really passionate about my career within HEB.

“When I started, I expected to find it hard coming into such a male-dominated field, but I quickly realised it didn’t matter if I was female. I was given the same opportunities as everyone else and was 100% supported when I showed interest in becoming a machine operator.

“I’m now a full-time grader driver, and I’m studying for my diploma in Civil engineering.”

Two of the things Kaitlyn enjoys most about her work are the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a job and working in a close-knit team. “It’s extremely fulfilling knowing each day that my workmates have my back and that we’re there to support one another, day in, day out.

“I also love that there are opportunities for career progression, which can lead you to a whole bunch of different avenues within the industry.”

Kaitlyn also manages to balance her ongoing learning with being a mum of two and a manager of a local children’s hockey team.

To other young women who might be considering a career in civil construction, she says: “Go for it!
“There are so many opportunities out there. It’s a field that can challenge you, but it can also bring out the best in you and make you realise you’re capable of skills you never thought you would have.
“Don’t be discouraged by stereotypes or doubts. The good days definitely outweigh the bad in this industry.”

HEB Training Manager – Learning and Development, David Hall, says, “Kaitlyn worked hard to achieve her Level 3 qualification and Level 4 apprenticeship through Connexis, and it’s amazing to see her go on to enrol in the Civil Engineering Diploma.

“She has worked hard with her studies and has found time to help her workmates with their own studies. Kaitlyn truly is an inspiration to all women in the civil industry who are looking to further their career through the HEB apprentice programme.

Well done, Kaitlyn—a deserving winner of Apprentice of the Year.”

The post Constructing a Career Through Training appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Attending a Connexis Girls with Hi-Vis® (GWHV) event in 2022 opened Natalee Hughes’s eyes to a new world of career possibilities.

After attending a GWHV hosted by Horizon Networks in Whakatane, Natalee completed a Gateway programme with Horizon while she was still a student at Trident High School. It just cemented the idea that a career as a line mechanic was for her.

Once she left school, Natalee joined Horizon full time as an apprentice line mechanic and is due to complete her apprenticeship later in 2025. She’s also gone on to help encourage other young women into similar apprenticeships by helping out at recent GWHV events.

“I really enjoyed the day when I visited through Girls with Hi-Vis®. As a student I really enjoyed being a bucket operator and controlling a crane, but the best thing was pole top rescue and I really enjoyed the hands-on nature of the work.

“GWHV is important because it gives girls a chance to try things you wouldn’t usually expect girls to do,” she says. “If you’re thinking about a trade, just go for it. Don’t let the opportunity pass you by — you might regret it.”

Natalee’s own successes are proof of where trades training can take you. After seeing her speak confidently and passionately to other young women at GWHV about the opportunities open to them, Natalee was selected by Horizon and Connexis for a Connexis Outward Bound scholarship in 2024 in recognition of her leadership skills.

“I wanted to do Outward Bound because I wanted to try something I’d never tried before and I wanted to gain confidence in my own abilities,” Natalee says, adding that one of the most rewarding parts of the experience was working with the team of people on her Outward Bound course.

“They were non-judgemental and they were all amazing people who really encouraged me to never give up on myself or my teammates. I was nervous about the 5km run we had to do, because of an injury, but I managed it and didn’t give up. I felt amazing afterwards. I had a real sense of accomplishment,” Natalee says.

“I also learned to always have the courage to speak up for yourself. In this job it’s really important as if you ever feel unsafe you need to speak up, and if I have a question I need to have the courage to ask.”

Back on the job with Horizon, Natalee says the thing she loves most about her job is the people she works with out in the field. “They push me past boundaries that I never thought I could cross. They make me feel a part of the line mechanic whānau.”

The post From Hi-Vis to High Voltage: Natalee Hughes is lighting the way for women in trades appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

When Hollie Atarau was 17, she started at Bay of Plenty’s Waiotahi Contractors as a receptionist.

25 years later she is now the Waiotahi’s quality and environmental advisor, thanks to an unbeatable combination of hard work and good training, through Connexis.

In fact, Hollie was one of the first people in New Zealand to complete a brand new qualification in infrastructure works contract management when it was launched by Connexis (then known as Infratrain) in the mid 2000s.

It’s just one of the training courses and qualifications Hollie has completed on her career path to date. Others include a NZ Certificate in Civil Infrastructure – Introductory Skills, followed by a supplementary credit programme, and then an NZ Certificate in Civil Infrastructure – Health, Safety and Environment.

The qualifications have followed Hollie’s professional progress from receptionist to contracts clerk, to contract administrator, becoming more involved in contracts management before taking on her current role.

“I just got more and more responsibilities as time went by. I also just really enjoy studying,” Hollie says of how she has used training to help her career progression.  “Plus, it gives you the credentials that back up your knowledge and experience. It’s good to have a piece of paper behind it all.”

Hollie is also enthusiastic about and supportive of other young women considering roles in infrastructure companies like Waiotahi. She took part in the company’s Connexis Girls with Hi-Vis® (GWHV) event in 2023 helping female high school students from around Bay of Plenty try their hand at some civil construction skills and chatting about career possibilities.

A key part of that, she says, is helping female job seekers realise the full scope of jobs available in industries like civil construction – and that it’s not all driving diggers and intense physical labour.

“There’s nothing wrong with being a digger driver or a truck driver, but there are other options too, like surveying or finance. There are lots of different paths you can go down.

“If you’re interested just contact a local civil construction company and let them know you’re interested. Take any role that you’re offered and go from there. Work your way up.

“There’s nothing better than getting experience from the ground up. You get to know how everything works together.”

Hollie’s days as Waiotahi’s quality and environmental advisor are always busy and varied.

“I help out the project managers a lot, developing contract management plans. And I take care of all the compliance of our consent conditions, making sure we’re doing everything we’re supposed to be doing and sending off all our compliance information to the regional council.

“I’m also secretary for the board of directors for Waiotahi so I get involved in some of the governance for the company, and I make sure all our management systems meet our ISO certifications.

“I really like developing systems and implementing them. I’m always looking for ways to improve our business. I’m not out there physically making money, so I like to look at ways that I can implement systems and processes that save the company money.”

One of Hollie’s career highlights to date was receiving a highly commended in the Excellence in Construction Administration category of the 2022 National Association of Women in Construction Excellence Awards. “That was a pretty proud moment.”

But Hollie is also keen to point out, particularly to other women considering an infrastructure career that the job has helped in other areas of her life.

“The money is quite good. That’s a good thing to know if you’re thinking about it as a job. For example, I’m a solo mum and it’s allowed me to buy my own home and support my son.”

The family-focused environment at Waiotahi is another aspect of her job that Hollie loves.

“Everyone here really cares about each other. If I need to do something like go to my son’s school or take time off during the school holidays, I’m really supported.”

Her advice for others considering a job in civil construction is to “just do it”.

“You can earn while you’re getting qualifications and you have the support of all the workmates around you. They’re there when you have questions and are trying to get your assignments done.”

The post Training Takes Hollie Through the Civil Construction Ranks appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Kat Kaiwai has been honoured with a King’s Service Medal for services to women and the civil construction industry.

Kat, who has been a strong supporter of Connexis Girls With Hi-Vis^® and a huge advocate for the opportunities offered by training and apprenticeships, is the owner of Tairawhiti Contractors in Ruatoria, on the East Coast.

With her team of 38 – half of whom are women – at Tairawhiti Contractors, Kat was instrumental in helping East Coast communities re-connect in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle.

On receiving the Kings Service Medal Kat told local newspaper the Gisborne Herald, the award was testament to the collective hard work of those around here.

“This signifies a commitment to service. Service to our whānau, our communities and our country – a value that I hold dear and that is instilled in my whānau.

“In my endeavours, I have always strived to uphold this principle, believing that true fulfilment comes from contributing to something greater than oneself,” she said.

“My grandmother Mate Kaiwai (nee Ngata) received a Queens Service Order in 2004 for her service and dedication to our people.

My great-grandfather Sir Apirana Ngata served our whānau, region and country also.

“Serving our people is in my DNA.”

Kat started her career at a desk job in Wellington, before getting her first taste of civil infrastructure in admin for Fulton Hogan. But it wasn’t too long before she decided she wanted a change, getting out from behind a desk and into the field.

From that moment, Kat began work-based training, something she sees as a lifelong commitment. She earned her tickets to work on much of the heavy gear used in road maintenance and within four years was embarking on her Civil Apprenticeship with Connexis. Unable to decide between the optional strands of her qualification, and unwilling to narrow down her career options, Kat chose to do all four.

Kat, who is also a qualified Connexis training assessor says she particularly enjoys opening the eyes of young women to career possibilities they may not have considered.

 “It’s great to show them they can do this and still have the other things they might want, like having children. The mindset is really changing,” Kat says.

She is also a big believer in how success for some helps encourage others.

“When I did my training, people thought ‘oh my god she did that by herself, as well as running a business and being a mum’. It does help get other people on the bandwagon.” 

In announcing Kat’s King’s Service Medal, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said her devotion to improving the lives of the people in her community was an inspiration.

“Katareina’s innovation is a testament to the strength of wāhine Māori taking leadership roles in driving the growth key to rebuilding our economy,” he said.

• Hear Kat Kaiwai on Radio NZ
• Read about Kat Kaiwai’s King’s Birthday honour in the Gisborne Herald
• Watch Seven Sharp at Tairawhiti Contractor’s Connexis Girls With Hi-Vis event

The post <strong>King’s Service Medal for Kat Kaiwai</strong> appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Annual Connection 2023, proudly hosted by Southland’s electricity management company, PowerNet in conjunction with Connexis | Te Pūkenga will see line mechanic crews and cable jointers compete in events that put their workplace skills to the test.

This year’s event will be held September 19-21 at Donovan Park in Invercargill with electrical supply crews travelling from different companies around the country to participate.

Annual Connection is also an opportunity for school students to see energy supply workers in action and get a feel for what a career in the industry looks like. A supplier expo will showcase new technologies and the three-day event will close with the Connexis Excellence Awards, recognising the country’s top energy and telecommunications trainees.

PowerNet CEO Jason Franklin says Annual Connection is an opportunity for the wider community to better understand the electrical supply industry and the company is looking forward to bringing a “Southern flavour” to the event.

“We have been involved in Annual Connection for a number of years and wanted to step up to host to give something back to the industry. The event is an opportunity to showcase the skills and experience we have in the sector right across New Zealand, as well as to share best practices and attract new people to the industry,” Franklin says.

“It’s also an excellent chance for industry people from all over the country to experience Invercargill and Southland hospitality.

“Our team members are very excited to be involved and have the first opportunity to represent PowerNet at home,” he says.

“The competitions are a real thrill for spectators and give the public a chance to see the incredible skills and training these energy supply workers have up close.”

Connexis Director Kaarin Gaukrodger says the competitions showcase the skills of  workers who have kept the country connected through some of the recent damaging weather events.

“Typically, the kind of work they’re doing is often in the backcountry, and at odd hours, therefore a lot of their vital work goes unseen so Annual Connection gives them an amazing opportunity to demonstrate what they know.

“Between the competitions and Excellence Awards, Annual Connection is an important celebration of New Zealand’s energy supply and telecommunications sectors,” she says.

“Between the awards and the competitions, Annual Connection offers a chance to show off best practice as well as the skills and talent embedded in our infrastructure workforce, while showcasing career opportunities to newcomers and the next generation.”

Gaukrodger adds Connexis is thrilled to have Southland’s PowerNet on board as sponsor this year. “We love taking Annual Connection to the regions and having the event in Invercargill this year, will be a fantastic opportunity to take a closer look at the industry in Southland and understand it’s unique challenges and opportunities.”

About PowerNet:

PowerNet Limited is a network management company delivering power to Invercargill City, Southland, West Otago, parts of Central Otago and Stewart Island.

PowerNet manages the electricity networks of The Power Company Limited, Electricity Invercargill Limited, OtagoNet Joint Venture and Lakeland Network Ltd (in parts of Frankton, Wanaka and Cromwell). Based on the regulatory value of the networks it manages, PowerNet is the equivalent of the fourth largest network company in New Zealand, delivering electricity to over 74,400 consumers.

The post Electrical supply crews amped up for Annual Connection 2023 appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Following a recent event to celebrate the achievements of the first Ultimit all-female line mechanic team to compete at Annual Connection in 2022, Gaukrodger said making women much more aware of the career opportunities open to them in infrastructure industries such as civil, energy, telecommunications, and water remained a key focus for Connexis through its Ultimit – Women in Infrastructure brand, as well as events such as Girls with Hi-Vis®.

Ultimit, established in 2011, promotes opportunities for a more diverse workforce to help ensure a continuous supply of skilled infrastructure workers in New Zealand.

It also appoints Ultimit ambassadors from among women already working in infrastructure to showcase what is possible and support other women into the industry.

Ultimit is currently seeking applications for a new intake of ambassadors for the 2023/24 year. Ultimit ambassadors sign up for one year to share their stories with others around the country to encourage and mentor other women toward successful infrastructure careers.

“Infrastructure careers are not even on the radar for many young women making career decisions,” Gaukrodger said. “Our Ultimit ambassadors play an important role in raising the profile of these careers, and helping young women realise they offer interesting and varied opportunities.”

Previous Ultimit ambassadors have found it extremely satisfying to share their experiences with the aim of helping other women find their place in infrastructure industries, Gaukrodger says.

Entering the first Ultimit all-female team to compete at Annual Connection was another important step to demonstrating the nature of infrastructure work to other women, and just how effective women can be at it, she said.

Annual Connection attracts line mechanic crews and cable jointers from around the country each year to compete in team and individual competitions that showcase their skills.

“Reflecting on the event, each of the women in this team talked about the weight they felt on their shoulders to be successful at Annual Connection. Being the first all-female team, they felt they were representing all the other women in the industry and their success would demonstrate that they are equals and can do it,” Gaukrodger said.

“One of the events they were most proud of was the pole installation. The very first event which required them to dig a large hole by shovel and raise a post, they were the first crew to get their pole up. They showed that even in a strength challenge their skills, technique and team work could compete against the best of them.”

The Ultimit team finished second in the line mechanic competition at Annual Connection and were recognised for their achievements as the first all-female team at an event in Wellington, attended by Connexis and members of the Ultimit line mechanic team including manager Laisa Pickering who was one of the first Ultimit ambassadors back in 2011. Also in attendance were representatives from Unison and Omexom, as well as guest speaker, Stuff sports reporter and host of The Podium podcast Zoe George, who shared her own experiences working in a male-dominated industry.

Manatū Wāhine (Ministry for Women) Director Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Anna Chalmers also attended the celebration event.

“Nothing sends a more powerful message about the importance and effectiveness of women in these skilled roles, than actually seeing women be skillful and successful in those roles,” Chalmers says.

“The infrastructure sector is one that is still very male-dominated, but there is no reason why that shouldn’t change. It must change if we are to address some of the skills shortages impacting the sector.

“Events like Annual Connection and recognising the achievements of the all-female team, are important in opening minds to the possibilities of women in infrastructure, not just to employers but to women,” she says.

Girls with Hi-Vis® (GWHV), an annual Connexis initiative to promote the industry to female high school students, is also due to kick off on 1 June. It involves close to 30 companies hosting more than 40 events around the country where the students can try key infrastructure skills and engage with other women working in the industry. More than 70 schools, with a total of about 750 students are expected to participate this year.

“Girls with Hi-Vis® gets bigger every year,” Gaukrodger says. “That represents an impressive mobilisation within our industry to engage with women.

“Events like Girls with Hi-Vis®, and Annual Connection as well as initiatives like the Ultimit Ambassador programme are all making in-roads in addressing the gender imbalance and the skills shortages in infrastructure businesses.

“But the work is ongoing. At Connexis, our focus is on training a robust, highly skilled pipeline of workers for our employers in the civil, energy, telecommunications and water sectors. That must involve making the opportunities in those industries more visible to women, whether they are leaving school or looking for new career pathways.

“Ultimit was created more than a decade ago because when asked, back then, why they didn’t have more women in their line mechanic crews, most supervisors answered that they weren’t the right fit for the job.

“So Ultimit was set up to work with employers to recruit and support two cohorts of females through their Line Mechanic apprenticeship. We followed their journey for a couple of years to understand the challenges, and how that was for the women and the crews they worked in. When we checked back in with the supervisors, we found they loved having women in the crews. They tended to follow direction well, have good attention to detail, and excellent communication skills,” Gaukrodger says.

GWHV was the next step in the journey as supervisors looked to bring more women into the trade, they realised they needed to make the trade known to women, she says. “GWHV aims to do just that, starting at schools.”

Find out more about our Ultimit – Women in Infrastructure Ambassadors here.

And if you’re iterested in becoming an Ambassador please talk to your CSAM.

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