Trust committed to education and training

The ageing workforce and the resulting move from front-line work to desk jobs, combined with the global shortage of trained line mechanics, means that the future security of electricity supply to consumers could be at risk.

The Eastern Bay Energy Trust recognised a serious shortage of young people in both the electricity supply and electrical sectors, and looked at various options for encouraging young people to enter the industry.

As a result of feedback from local businesses, the Trust launched its industry and education training programme, in partnership with the Electricity Supply Industry Training Organisation (ESITO).

The programme includes:

Scholarships: for pre-trade, diploma and degree education in energy related fields;

Apprenticeships: covering the course fees for electrical and line mechanic apprentices;

Electricity supply taster course: designed for young people who are considering a career in the electricity supply industry.

The Eastern Bay Energy Trust is committed to supporting the training and development of young people in this exciting and diverse industry, and allocates $100,000 per year for industry education and training.

 

Scholarship programme

The Eastern Bay Energy Trust launced its scholarship programme in 2003 and since then has awarded 72 scholarships for pre-trade, diploma and degree study in energy related fields.

Scholarships can lead to a wide range of careers, including electrical fitters; mechanical fitters; plant operators; electricians; technicians; power system engineers; power system controllers.

Pre-employment scholarships in electricity supply

National Certificate in Electricity Supply - Level 2	This full-time programme is designed specifically for the electricity supply industry.   It is an excellent course to prepare students for apprenticeships in the industry and includes opportunities for valuable work experience.
National Certificate in Electrical Engineering - Level 1 & Level 2	This programme includes units on electrical knowledge, safe practices, mathematics and computing. On gaining one of these qualifications students also have marketable skills to help gain an apprenticeship in the electrical trade.

Diploma / degree scholarships

National Diploma in Engineering (NDE) previously known as NZCE	This can be achieved either as a two year full-time programme or as a part-time course over a longer time period.   The diploma caters for individuals wishing to prepare for engineering technician roles in the electricity supply industry that are typically asociated with the installation, servicing and repair of engineering systems, products and components.
Bachelor of Engineering	This is a four year programme that consists of academic and practical trainng that leads to registration as a professional engineer.  This degree enables the graduate to embark on a wide range of career paths such as design, consulting, product development and research in the electricity supply industry.

EASTERN BAY ENERGY TRUST SCHOLARSHIPS

General Criteria

Candidates must be between 16 and 25 years, New Zealand citizens or permanent residents. Candidates must be from the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Course must be energy related. Candidates must be able to demonstrate a high level of motivation and commitment. Candidates should demonstrate an interest and commitment to the region.

Applications open 1 September and close 31 October each year, for scholarships for the following tertiary year. Scholarships are offered towards course fees for energy-related study. To apply contact the Trust office, or download the application form here. 

BRIAN PONTING SCHOLARSHIP

To be eligible for this one-year scholarship, candidates (in addition to the above general criteria) must:

• Have attended Kawerau College;
• Have completed an ESITO / EBET electricity supply taster course;
• Be studying for a National Certificate in Electrical Engineering or a National Certificate in Electricity Supply.

The scholarship is for up to $6,000 course fees at Bay of Plenty Polytechnic or Waikato Institute of Technology.

Applications open 1 September and close 31 October each year, for scholarships for the following tertiary year. To apply for the Brian Ponting Scholarship contact the Trust office, or download the application form here.

HORIZON ENERGY SCHOLARSHIP

This two-year scholarship is offered in conjunction with the Eastern Bay Energy Trust to develop industry skills for the benefit of the Eastern Bay of Plenty. In addition to the above general criteria, candidates must be entering the third year of a Bachelor of Engineering (electrical) degree (heavy power option). This scholarship will be awarded subject to evidence of acceptance into the approved course.

The scholarship includes $1000 towards books and course related costs, holiday work with Horzion Energy during years three and four of the degree, and possible future employment with the company, upon completion of the degree.

The Eastern Bay Energy Trust's contribution will cover the candidate's course fees up to $6000 per year, for years three and four of the degree. Scholarship funding for year four is provisional upon the candidate satisfactorily completing the prior year's study.

Applications open 1 September and close 31 October each year, for scholarships for the following tertiary year. To apply for the Horizon Energy Scholarship contact the Trust office, or download the application form here.

'Energising our community'.

 

VISION

Eastern Bay of Plenty:- a community energising its own future