Every scarifice was worth it: Michael's electrical apprenticeship journey

As Michael Summers prepares to complete his electrical apprenticeship this year, he reflects on a journey filled with learning, growth and opportunities that have shaped both his career and his character.

While there were challenges along the way, Michael says every experience helped him become the electrician he is today.

Finding his feet in the industry

Starting an apprenticeship can feel daunting. New environments, new responsibilities and a steep learning curve are all part of the experience. For Michael, those early years became an opportunity to prove himself and build confidence in his abilities.

‘It gave me motivation to prove myself onsite,’ he said. ‘Being able to sell myself to what I’m actually worth and to show the host employers how valuable I am to them.’

That mindset helped him develop not only his technical skills, but also the confidence to back himself and his work.

Being part of something bigger

One of Michael's proudest achievements during his apprenticeship was working on Melbourne's Metro Tunnel project.

"Seeing it from the stage I joined in to seeing it at its operational stage is mind blowing. It's something I'll always be proud to have been a part of"

Watching such a significant project come to life gave him a real appreciation for the impact electricians have on the communities they serve.

What he’s learned: more than just electrical skills

When asked what he can do now that he couldn’t at the start, Michael’s answer isn’t about a specific technique or qualification. It’s something deeper.

‘Being able to stay motivated with passion to continue my career as an electrician,’ he said.

Sustaining motivation over the full length of an apprenticeship is something that gets underestimated. It requires resilience, self-belief, and a clear sense of purpose. Michael has developed all three.

It takes a village: the people behind the journey

Michael is grateful for the people who have supported him along the way.

"I wouldn't just say it was one person that's supported me through my apprenticeship. It takes a village to raise a child. And I feel like that proverb has been applied in my apprenticeship from start to finish."

From mentors and supervisors to family, friends and colleagues, Michael credits the people around him for helping him stay focused and motivated throughout his apprenticeship.

Finishing the apprenticeship: a big fish heading for the ocean

With the finish line now in sight, Michael describes how it feels with characteristic honesty. He’s under no illusion that becoming qualified means he knows everything. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.

"Nerve racking for sure. From being the big fish in a small pond moving into the ocean. I know there’s still so much to learn when I become qualified. And I’m going to continue this journey until the end."

What he’d tell his day-one self

Looking back, Michael would remind his younger self that every challenge has a purpose. The experiences that tested him also helped him grow, build resilience and become the person he wanted to be.

"Prepare your heart, because you’re going to go through two heartbreaks in order to become the man you want to be."

As he prepares to complete his apprenticeship, Michael is proof that hard work, persistence and a positive attitude can take you a long way. With the finish line near and an exciting future ahead, he's ready for whatever comes next.