A word from Nickolas Delithodoris, NECA Education & Careers apprentice

1) What can an apprentice expect in their first 4 weeks on the job?
An induction to the work environment and an overview of company operations.

2) Given the likely rotation amongst different hosts, how do you settle into a routine?
Over 2 years, I’ve worked with 6 different hosts. At times work can run out with one host and soon enough you’ll be placed with a different host. As you build trust with a new host through your work ability, you will begin to feel comfortable and the host begins to trust you allowing you to work more independently. All bosses have a different level of trust and it’s important to impress them because the expectations involved can be different from host to host.

3) How have you found the combination of work and study?
Each host is open about the level of work required and the duration of the role so there are no hidden secrets. Your study does not affect your work environment as you attend one day per week and it’s any easy task to keep balanced as long as you keep on top with your schooling.

4) What can you expect by joining NECA Education & Careers?
The level of work exposure is unbelievable. There is a misconception that Group Training apprentices are used as labour hire though the truth is the work is varied and challenging and hosts are willing to teach you. I’ve been given advanced tasks such as fitting off switch boards during my second year.

5) What level of support can an apprentice receive from an Industry Careers Consultant?
An Industry Careers Consultant provide support from every angle. They are always willing to help with issues on or off the job. They visit frequently and go above and beyond their level of duty.

1) How should I prepare for a job interview?
Look professional even if you’re applying for an apprenticeship. Dress for the job that you want, not the one that you have. If you feel professional those interviewing you will see you as professional and that is the first step. Go through your CV. Make sure it is as up to date as possible and make sure you know what you have written. If you are questioned about your CV and you don’t know the answer it can make you look like you didn’t do the work that you have stated. Think about your skills and how they can be transferred into another role. It’s a good way to sell yourself.

2) How do I answer a Behavioural Based interview question?
With honesty. BBI questions are not there to catch you out. They are a clever way to understand the way a person behaves instinctively in a particular instance. A good technique is the STAR technique. S = situation (where were you, what year it was), T = Task (what task were you given to complete), A = Action(what action did you specifically take to achieve the task), R = Result (what was the outcome). By following these simple steps you can really shine in an interview.

3) Do I have to do a Pre-Apprenticeship?
A Pre-App is the best first step towards a successful Apprenticeship. It is an introduction to the specialty field and you may find that after doing a pre-app the particular trade is not suitable to you. It can save you literally years of indecision. Do the pre-app, love it, get an apprenticeship in the trade. Don’t take the pre-app lightly, either. Entry into an Apprenticeship could rely on the results and commitment you give to the Pre-app. Remember that and you can’t go wrong.

4) How old do I have to be to start an Apprenticeship?
The minimum age for acceptance into an apprenticeship is 15, but just remember that working in a trade can take you from host to host so you need the ability to travel. At NECA Education & Careers due to the travel and safety requirements of the electrical field, you need to be 18 years old.

5) What is involved in an induction?
You will fill out employment forms to ensure that you are paid all of your entitlements, including super. You will learn the values of the company, how to be the best employee you can be. You will learn the values important to working safely on the job. Various people from the industry will visit to share with you information about the industry. You will be issued personal protective clothing and equipment. NECA Education and Careers will sell a comprehensive set of tools to successful applicants and instruction will be delivered on how to use them. Tools are repaid by apprentices over a period of time. It is an enjoyable and informative, learning experience.

1) What advice could you give an apprentice entering the workplace?
Be yourself and respect those you work with and your company’s customers. An apprenticeship is about your development, so ensure you listen, ask questions and be positive in the workplace. Be the best that you can be and above all enjoy what you do!

2) How often does an Industry Careers Consultant visit?
We visit the workplace every 3 months. The aim of the visit is to have a chat and discuss your development both on the job and off the job in conjunction with your supervisor/manager. It is important that as a developing professional you are open, honest and contribute to the conversation.

3) What do your clients/host employers look for in an apprentice?
They want a helper, someone with a can-do attitude. Don’t worry if you have limited skills, your apprenticeship training will provide you the support you need.

4) If an apprentice has an issue in the workplace, what can they do about it?
It is always advisable that you speak with your supervisor/manager about the issue and aim to resolve it sooner rather than later. Letting it sit without any action can perhaps make it worse. If you are not comfortable in talking to a representative in your workplace, contact your Industry Careers Consultant at NECA Education &  Careers who will meet with you in person, and talk through your issue and aim to resolve it ASAP in the strictest of confidence. Even just talking about an issue can improve your situation.

5) What will an individual gain from completing an apprenticeship?
Upon completion, you will have your A-Grade licence qualification provided you keep up with your schooling, profiling and pass all external exams. You will also have valuable hands-on knowledge having worked in your field for 4 years.