Finalist: 2022 GTNT Group Awards – Most Outstanding Apprentice of the Year – Stage 2
Qualification: Certificate Ill in Electrotechnology Electrician
Host Business: Nilsen NT Electrical
In early 2020, Julian was looking for a career change after the pandemic displaced him from his previous occupation. He saw this as a fantastic opportunity to take up a trade. Julian has always been fascinated by the science of electricity and how electrical installations worked throughout buildings, factories etc.
Julian had to re-adjust his life after deciding to change careers after six years and in doing so, even turned down an interstate promotion. He jumped at the opportunity presented by GTNT Group and Nilsen Electrical to commence an Electrician Apprenticeship. Last year, Julian won the Apprentice of the Year Award at Nilsen Electrical.
Starting an apprenticeship hasn’t been smooth sailing, however Julian feels it was the best decision he’s made. He enjoys going into work every day and the different challenges the team works through. After being out of the education system for seven years it was a challenge to put his learning cap back on.
“At times I did feel out of place, where did I fit in as a 24-year-old apprentice? I found myself naturally falling into a mentoring role...”
What impact did your studies/work have on your life?
A close friend who is an electrician, recommended the industry and said they thoroughly enjoyed the work and thought I would be suited to the industry. I wanted to learn and study a skill set that could provide me with a qualification which would lead to a career. I was curious about the science of electricity and wanted to know more about the industry and how everything worked.
Going back to "school" in the form of trade school was a real eye opener for me. After being out of the education system for seven years it was a challenge to put my learning cap back on. At times I did feel out of place, I struggled to adapt to this new environment and the younger age group, where did I fit in as a 24-year-old apprentice? I found myself naturally falling into a mentoring role for many, often assisting with study periods or helping to prepare for exams. Teaching and leading is something that comes naturally, both my parents are from teaching/training backgrounds, this is something I have taken in my stride at trade school.
When I started with GTNT Group and Nilsen I was looking for real world skills, something that was a challenge and involved working with my hands. Looking back now after 18 months of training, I am more confident in myself, I know what I can do and more importantly, when to ask for help. Now I feel like I can be a leader and mentor to younger apprentices.
I feel very lucky being a GTNT Group apprentice. Having an Employment Specialist who I meet with monthly provides a great avenue for open discussions, particularly work-related issues. This isn't the case for all apprentices.
I thoroughly enjoy my job and the people I work with. I look forward to the daily challenges we are presented with as electricians and love to be somewhat of a problem solver for a client with an electrical issue.
Fun Fact!
Outside of work I am a keen sportsman, I am part of an Indoor soccer team called the Local Legends, I play outdoor soccer with Port Darwin Football Club and I volunteer at the Nightcliff Football Club, helping out the Division 2 Spartans side as their runner and water boy.
