The National Energy Technician Training Scheme (NETTS) is an industry first, collaborative apprenticeship program between Programmed and other major oil and gas organisations across Australia.
On 31 January 2021, the NETTS second ever intake graduated from their four-year apprenticeship program – ready to venture off into their new careers.
This date also marked the 4 year anniversary for the group of 10 apprentices, from when they started in 2017 as fresh-faced high school graduates, with relatively no experience or knowledge of the oil and gas industry.
Fast-forward four years – and they are each proudly receiving their graduation certificates as confident professionals with sound trade skills and wide industry knowledge.
The graduates’ final year in their apprenticeships was like no other, with COVID-19, cyclones and other natural disasters stepping in the way. Many of the apprentices had been ‘stood down’ from their substantive positions on-site which saw the class demonstrate true grit and resilience, finding opportunities throughout the crisis being creative with their learning and exposure.
Many of the team were able to draw on their skills to assist the more junior apprentices in their learnings; hosting presentations on site specific equipment and knowledge, then following up with smaller webinar arrangements to test and ensure they understood the content.
Others were placed on metro-based secondments across the Perth region conducting essential works on shut downs, construction and other necessary work, which still allowed for skills to grow and develop. Some even took to ‘office jobs’ for a spell which provided some exciting exposure to engineering projects and work scopes.
Bryn Norman, 4th Year Santos apprentice utilised his time and maintained his volunteer status with the SES for regional border checks etc. This willingness to help, support and give back to their communities, host companies and others is what makes the class of 2021 truly special.
Ian Ritchie, the Lead in Santos for Apprentice Program and Future Skills Development noted on the night his pride and enjoyment he has received in working with the team. “They have shown to themselves, their families and other young people what is really achievable when you work hard and remain focussed, even in the face of adversity.”
The NETTS team and our host companies of Shell Australia and Santos wish the team all the best of luck as they kick off 2021 as qualified tradespeople.
Remember this isn’t the end… it’s just the beginning.
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