I think we can all agree that back in 2015, not one of us got the answer correct to the question: ‘where do you see yourself 5 years from now?’

Regardless of where we had hoped to be, we are on the cusp of a new year and we’re sensing a cautious optimism among our members and industry partners.

As an industry, we are no strangers to change and tend to forget how well we adapt to meet challenges head on; embracing new technologies, new solutions and new work practices every day. This year has been no exception.

As an industry, we are no strangers to change and tend to forget how well we adapt to meet challenges head on; embracing new technologies, new solutions and new work practices every day. This year has been no exception.

As we consider the future of the electrical and communications industry, in this issue of NECA News we focus on the next generation, our apprentices. We take a look at how government is supporting electrical contracting businesses to take on new apprentices and the role NECA has played in making this happen. As we close out 2020 we also take this opportunity to congratulate our inspiring 2020 Apprentice Award winners and thank the businesses, many of them NECA members, that have been instrumental in their journey.

We are looking forward to celebrating our apprentices, and the achievements of our industry through the NECA Excellence Awards together again next year. Nominations are also now open for the NECA Excellence and Apprentice awards. Key dates for the 2020/21 industry awards double header are included on page 10. 

Thank you again to everyone who has provided feedback on the launch issue of NECA News. If you have something to share about what’s happening in your corner of the country, let us know. We’d love to hear from you. Email necanews@neca.asn.au

We wish you and yours a safe and restful festive season.

The NECA News team