Clarke Energy Apprentice Scheme Extends to Australia

As a key component to Clarke Energy in Australia’s business growth strategy, we are pleased to announce the arrival of our first two apprentices. Our new apprentice programme in Australia ensures we have vital access to the best new talent who will absorb skills and knowledge from Clarke Energy’s highly trained and experienced personnel. The recruitment process to seek out the best was exhaustive. Through a specialist apprenticeship recruitment service, 10 candidates were short-listed, interviewed and skill tested. Our two new apprentices were chosen from the seven hopefuls who made it to second round interviews. Lachlan Richard and William Ingram will now complete their TAFE Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade apprenticeships over the next four years. Lachlan and William will take part in our New Employee Mentor Programme and attend multiple safety and compliance training programs. Supervised by qualified technicians, they will also undertake product training programs as well as participate in the Jenbacher Field Service Engineer Certification Programme. The pair will be fully supervised when completing their work tasks at Clarke Energy and attend trade school, as required. Our bright new recruits completed work experience, short courses and qualifications prior to joining us. Both worked as labourers in engineering and fitting businesses, while William previously did fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) work experience as a Driller’s Offsider. Both enthusiastically welcomed the opportunity to complete their apprenticeship at Clarke Energy. Lachlan says “I feel lucky to be given this opportunity as it’s a unique field of work. Not many apprenticeship programs offer Australia-wide travel.” William is also thankful for his big break. “I am so grateful to work for such a professional company that clearly cares a lot about its employees, while I work towards my career goal.”   We put them under the spotlight to learn more about our new employees….

Q: Why were you drawn to an apprenticeship and career with Clarke Energy?

Lachlan: For the opportunity to learn and work with some of the best in the industry. I want to gain more certifications and earn the opportunity to grow with the company to see where my career takes me. William:  To learn everything there is to know about these generators so I’m fully qualified and can work independently. After completing my apprenticeship, I hope to stay full time with Clarke energy to continue my career.

Q:  What strengths do you bring to Clarke Energy?

Lachlan: My science and maths background, as well as my previous hands-on experience as a fitter/ boilermaker and my computer knowledge. William: My mindset. I am fully committed to this apprenticeship. I also have experience in working away.

Q: What areas do you want to develop during your apprenticeship?

Lachlan: I want to deepen my technical knowledge and hands-on skills, but also want to further develop the characteristics needed to be an excellent mechanical fitter/field technician. William: I’m looking forward to developing my computer competency, overall mechanical knowledge and my time management.

Q: How have you found your first few months at Clarke Energy?

Lachlan: Great. We’ve been eased into the role and well supported. The staff are friendly and enjoy what they do, which is a nice change. William: Really positive. Everyone I’ve met enjoys working here and the professionalism in which everything is handled is outstanding.

Outside of Work – Fun Facts

Lachlan: I love my sports – ice hockey (up the Jets) and footy (Geelong). I’m from Whyalla, so I head back to spend time with friends and family. I also love camping, my cars, motorbikes and my ex-racing greyhound Angello, aka Pistolier (terrible record, just loves to eat and sleep). William: I love surfing, fishing, cooking, playing pool, riding motorbikes and putting my mechanical skills to work on my car.