Sparking up a transition from economics to electrical
Leaving the finance sector to undertake an apprenticeship in electrical works has been a dream come true for Thomas Betts.
After a 10-year career in sales and finance, Thomas Betts is finally doing what he always wanted to do – working with his hands and getting an apprenticeship.
The 31-year-old is a fourth-year apprentice at Intract Australia, specialising in civil and building construction, industrial and commercial electrical work.
“I’ve been all over the state working on big projects, such as installing power to construction sites and buildings,” he said. “There is a lot of learning what the industry is about, what I’m able to do and what suits me.”
With previous employment experience behind him, Mr Betts recognises the value of apprenticeship training. “When you go into the workforce, there’s no guarantee of promotion,” he said.
“With an apprenticeship, you go from stage one to stage two and so on: as long as you’re studying and working hard, there’s a progressive pathway and the goal at the end of being qualified. It has allowed me to plan my life.”
Once qualified, Mr Betts hopes to have the chance to mentor his own future electrician. “I see myself as someone who can lead quite comfortably,” he said. “I’m a quick learner and I’m patient with people. My company is looking into getting me an apprentice of my own, which will be cool.”
