Free battery training charges Harry into the next phase

For licensed electrician Harry, upskilling in battery training has been the spark he needed to power up the next phase of his career.

Having completed his apprenticeship at TAFE Queensland, Harry recently returned to complete the Grid-Connected Battery Storage Systems Designer-Installer Skill Set (UEESS00191), a qualification that enables him to design and install battery energy storage systems and obtain accreditation under the SAA Scheme in order to be eligible for small-scale technology certificates (STCs)

Better still, the four-day course is currently being fully funded through the TAFE Centre of Excellence Clean Energy Batteries, led by TAFE Queensland, a joint initiative between the Australian and Queensland Governments. The intensive training is helping electricians supercharge their skills without the financial burden.

Already working for a company specialising in solar installations, Harry said the training has given him the tools to take on more responsibility and become a valuable asset to the business.

"Before the course, the system design side of things was mostly handled by the boss. Now I can design battery systems myself, which not only helps the business but also allows me to better explain solutions to customers and understand how everything works behind the scenes," Harry said.

A course highlight for Harry was gaining hands-on experience with the back end of the systems.

"I wasn't expecting to learn as much as I did about the design and planning side of battery systems. Using software like Pylon, you can view a property from above and design a system to suit the home. It's a really practical tool and something I've already been able to apply in my work."

The course also exposes participants to a range of battery systems and technologies, with industry representatives visiting to demonstrate products and answer questions.

"One thing that really stood out was the diversity of brands and systems we got to see. In the industry, companies often stick with just a handful of products, so getting exposure to a broad range of systems was incredibly valuable," Harry said.

"Each system has its own way of operating, particularly when it comes to commissioning, so having the opportunity to learn directly from the manufacturers was a huge advantage."

The training has also helped Harry pass on his knowledge to the next generation of electricians.

"I work closely with a few apprentices, and everything I've learned through this course is something I can share with them. It's helped me become a better mentor and give them a stronger understanding of where the industry is heading."

Taking advantage of the fully funded training offer meant Harry didn't have to put his professional development on hold.

"Having the course fully funded meant I could jump straight in and upskill now rather than waiting until I could afford it. I've paid for training courses myself in the past, and if this one wasn't funded, I probably would have delayed it for a while."

For other electricians considering the course, Harry's advice is simple: don't hesitate.

"I'd 100 per cent recommend it, especially while it's fully funded. I was able to enrol within a few weeks and, while it's only four days long, it's four days packed with useful information. You'll come away with skills you can use straight away and a much clearer picture of where battery technology is heading."

For Harry, the course has proven to be more than just a qualification. It's been a powerful way to stay current in a rapidly evolving industry and ensure his career and those he mentors remains fully charged for the future.

Watch our video to learn more about the training.