Information for students
The electrotechnology industry offers career choices at the cutting edge of technology and growth in Australian business and enterprise. Career pathways are clear, with opportunities for relatively high wages, excellent future employment prospects and great lifestyle choices.
Today, there are approximately 99,000 electricians, 31,000 communications tradespersons, 28,000 electronic and communications tradespersons and close to 13,000 refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics employed in Australia, a fair percentage of the Australian workforce.
The industry is projected to grow and is always looking for skilled workers. As we become increasingly reliant on technology, automation and the internet, those with a career in electrotechnology are well-placed to enjoy a long and prosperous working life with unlimited prospects for advancement.
You will need to undertake an apprenticeship, but it doesn't stop there - you can carry through to a diploma or University degree. Once employed, you can continue working in the trade as a technician or enter sales, marketing, estimating, design, management, project management or teaching. You could even go on to start your own contracting business.
The challenges and opportunities are broad and exciting.
What next?
You can help your chances of securing a position in this industry by:
- Looking through this site and learning about the industry
- Consider studying the most useful subjects at school (Maths, English and IT/Communications, for example)
- Seeking out the Pre-apprenticeship Aptitude Test
- Actively seeking an apprenticeship
- Working through the interview tips section on this site including preparing questions and answers
- Attending open days and career expos at local TAFEs or Registered Training Organisations that run courses in electrotechnology and/or pre-apprenticeship courses
