From the cricket circuit to control circuits, Tyler is multiplying his career opportunities in electrotechnology
Stanwell apprentice, Tyler Heness, is undertaking a dual qualification and powering up his career.
Born and bred in the South Burnett region, Tyler is an avid cricketer and when he's not working or studying, he’s training with the Wooroolin Warriors A-Grade team.
“My goals for the future are to complete my final exams and get my electrical and instrumentation licenses. In five to ten years’ time, I see myself with the skills and knowledge in the trade to start my own business,” explained Tyler.
Tyler enjoys the practical, hands-on training component to the Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician incorporating Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control (UEE30811/UEE31211) at TAFE Queensland’s Kingaroy campus.
“I’ve learnt about DC and AC theory, control circuits, how to calculate the math on max demand, fault currents, volt drop and much more.”
“I’ve developed practical skills to undertake tasks such as wiring up switchboards, sub-boards, control circuits and testing and verification of equipment in a professional and safe manner.” He added.
Tyler is an advocate for the benefits of connecting with other apprentices in the classroom, and undertaking practical exercises to complement the theoretical aspects of the course.
“Studying with the other students is helpful as they bring different ideas and ways to think. It helps me to understand the concepts when various ideas are being voiced to the room.”
“Plus, the teachers link the theory with practical lessons. For example, we would write a control circuit down on a piece of paper, then wire it up in the classroom.”
Tyler believes the fast growing electrical services industry is ideal for those who are mathematical minded and are interested in ongoing professional development.
“Anyone looking to get into the industry that I'm in, it’s very one of kind and you won’t find it anywhere else. It’s very interesting and you’ll always be learning. For anyone that does want to study, it involves a fair bit of maths and thinking.”
“TAFE Queensland is really amazing because it teaches you all the skills and knowledge necessary for the trade.”
“Anyone that is looking to apply, do it, you’ll regret it if you don’t.” advised Tyler.
A dual trade course in electrotechnology provides the skills to work in multiple disciplines. Graduates of Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician incorporating Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control (UEE30811/UEE31211) can apply for an electrical contractor licence and become a trade-qualified electrician, or trade-qualified electrical instrumentation technician.
The National Skills Commission has predicted that energy sector employment opportunities for trades such as electricians and electrical engineers will increase by 10.2% over five years with an estimated 14,600 new job openings between 2021 and 2026.
TAFE Queensland is the state’s leading training provider for the Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30811), training around 70 per cent of the total electrical apprentices employed in Queensland.