With up to 165,000 electricians needed in Australia by 2022,1 one Guildford local is turning up the voltage on his career by upskilling as an electrician at TAFE NSW, allowing him to work on major infrastructure projects across Western Sydney.

Kevin Lourenco has been an electrician since he was a teenager and was given the opportunity from his employer to harness his skills and study a Certificate III in Electricity Supply Industry - Power Systems - Distribution Overhead at TAFE NSW Miller.

As a result, Kevin, 39, (pictured right) now has the skills to build and maintain energy networks and is working on the $5.3 billion Western Sydney Airport at Badgery’s Creek, which is set to generate economic activity and provide employment opportunities for locals.

Kevin said it was a life changing opportunity that his employer valued his career progression and supported his study.

“Having the chance to upskill in an industry I’ve worked in for 20 years has created an opportunity for me to take my skills to the next level, including working at heights,” Kevin said.

“It’s fantastic that my employer Infinite Energy Services values the hands-on, practical training that TAFE NSW provides and is investing in our training.”

Director of Infinite Energy Services, Luke Witjes, said he sends a number of his employees to TAFE NSW to ensure they are equipped with industry current skills.

“In an industry like electrical trades, there are always new skills to learn which is why I send my employees to TAFE NSW.

“It’s a great investment because they are trained by industry leaders and the quality of training shines through in the work they do,” Mr Witjes said.

TAFE NSW head teacher of Electrical Trades, Gavin Hunt, said local businesses often looked to TAFE NSW to upskill their staff.

“We offer a pathway for students to expand their practical skills and build on their industry experience that could lead them to a career as an overhead linesman, cable jointer, rail traction worker and even an electrical engineer,” Mr Hunt said.

“Whether you’re a first-year apprentice or upskilling as a seasoned electrician, the training opportunities are endless.”

To find out more about studying Electrical Trades at TAFE NSW for semester two, phone 131 601 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

Media contact: Jessica Cortis, TAFE NSW media and communications Business Partner, 0456 170 211