Finding his path: Brodie’s electrical apprenticeship journey

“During high school, I never had a clear idea of what career I wanted to pursue. I always liked the idea of becoming an electrician but put it on the back burner until I finished school. Once I graduated, I circled back and decided to give it a go.”

Rather than heading down the university path or jumping into a job without a clear direction, Brodie decided to take a chance on the trade that had interested him for years.

And looking back, he’s glad he did.

Four years can sound like a long time

One of the things Brodie believes can put people off an apprenticeship is the four-year commitment.

When you’ve just finished more than a decade of school, hearing that there are another four years ahead of you can sound daunting. But as Brodie points out, an apprenticeship is a completely different experience.

“I think the timeframe worries people, especially if they’re coming out of school. They think that another four years is going to go forever. But it’s not the same — you get to learn skills and get paid while doing it.”

Those four years aren’t simply about working towards a qualification. They’re spent learning on the job, gaining hands-on experience and gradually becoming more confident and capable in the trade.

“If you’re willing to learn and put in the effort, you will not regret it.”

Finding a career that suits you

There’s also more to choosing a career than what you take home at the end of the week.

For Brodie, electrical work gives him something he knows he wouldn’t get from sitting behind a desk every day: routine, variety and the opportunity to challenge himself.

“It matters to me because it keeps me busy and provides a routine. It allows me to challenge myself mentally and physically at work, which I think is important for my wellbeing and isn’t something I could get from an office job.”

It’s that combination of working with your hands, thinking through problems and continuing to learn that has made the trade a good fit for him.

Having people in your corner

Like any career, an apprenticeship comes with good days and challenging ones. Having the right people around you can make a big difference along the way.

For Brodie, his biggest supporters have always been close to home.

“My family has always supported me in everything that I do.”

That support has been there as he’s learnt the trade, taken on new challenges and continued building towards becoming a qualified electrician.

So, should you take the leap?

For someone considering an apprenticeship but still sitting on the fence, Brodie’s message is simple.

“It’s one of the best decisions you can make. The opportunities you’ll have to learn new skills and gain hands-on experience are unmatched. It can be challenging at times, but it’s incredibly rewarding and sets you up for a long-term career.”

Brodie didn’t leave high school with his entire career mapped out. He had an idea of something he might enjoy, came back to it and decided to give it a go.

Sometimes, that’s all you need to do.

You don’t have to have the next ten years figured out. You just have to be willing to take that first step.