Kiana's journey from classroom to worksite

Sometimes getting into a trade starts with being given that first opportunity.

For Kiana, that came through school. A company doing work at her school was looking for someone for work experience, and after her teacher recommended her, she got her first taste of the electrical trade.

Out of all the trades she could have chosen, electrical was the one that stood out.

I found it the most interesting. I loved the problem solving involved and all of the different avenues you can take once you’re qualified.

Since then, Kiana’s apprenticeship has taken her onto different sites, introduced her to some great people and given her the chance to keep learning along the way.

Finding the right crew

One job that stands out for Kiana was working with Anova at St Vincent’s.

She was part of a great crew, many of whom she’s still friends with today, and also had the opportunity to work on the construction of a research hospital.

I really enjoyed the work involved in building the research hospital and all of the new things I learnt. It was different from what I had done before.

Getting to experience different types of work is something Kiana has really enjoyed about electrical. There’s always something new to learn and plenty of different paths to take once you’re qualified.

Having someone who gets it

One of Kiana’s biggest supporters throughout her apprenticeship has been her boyfriend, who also happens to be a sparky.

He’s kept me motivated on bad days, helped me when I didn’t understand how things worked and made sure I go to bed at an appropriate hour for the 4am wake-ups.

Having someone at home who understands exactly what a day on site can be like has made a big difference too.

“Being able to come home and talk about my day to someone who understands exactly what I’m talking about has been the biggest blessing.”

“It’s not as scary as you think”

Before starting her apprenticeship, Kiana had never even touched a drill. So for other women who are interested in the trade but might be a little nervous about getting started, she knows exactly what that feels like.

I would honestly say it’s not as scary as you think. I promise the ‘grumpy old men’ you were warned about are probably the nicest.

And being a good sparky certainly doesn’t mean having to change who you are to fit in.

“You can absolutely have your lashes done, a fresh set of nails and be the most capable sparky too.”

Just give it a go

For anyone thinking about starting an apprenticeship, Kiana’s advice is simple.

“Just give it a go. The worst that can happen is you don’t enjoy it and try something else.”

She also believes being an apprentice is the time to ask questions, learn from the people around you and really understand the work you’re doing.

Learn everything you can as an apprentice, ask the stupid questions and take the time to understand what you’re doing and why.

Kiana started her apprenticeship having never touched a drill. Now, she’s building a career in a trade she enjoys.

Sometimes, you really do just have to give it a go.