The company responsible for the Goulburn Valley’s electricity network, Powercor, says three apprentices have joined its Shepparton depot as part of a near-record intake of apprentices. Powercor said between itself and CitiPower, which supplies customer connections in Melbourne, they had recruited 34 apprentices and trainees for 12 locations across the businesses. The three based in Shepparton are Alex Smith, Callan Aldridge and Cameron McNamara, who are taking up line apprenticeships, which involves maintaining and upgrading the overhead network of poles and wires and responding to faults. In an occasional series, the News will profile apprentices across the region and today we get to know Mr McNamara a little better.
Name? Cameron McNamara.
Apprenticeship? Linesman — Cirt 3 Distribution Overhead.
What business do you work for? Powercor, Shepparton.
How many years of your apprenticeship have you completed? One month into a four-year apprenticeship.
What is your previous work background? I have completed a signwriting apprenticeship where I have spent the majority of my time, as well as a building supervisor.
Did you grow up in the Goulburn Valley? Yes, born and raised in Shepparton.
What do you like about the job? I love the team environment and the ability to work outdoors and at heights. The majority is onsite learning, with the ability to continuously learn and develop new skills.
What do you find challenging about the job? Elements of the weather.
Why did you choose the apprenticeship you’re doing? I saw this apprenticeship as an opportunity to learn and develop new skills; it’s a good career, with the opportunity to continuously learn.
What are your goals within your trade? Successfully complete my apprenticeship and one day get my Glove and Barriers to work on the higher volt lines.
Coffee, iced coffee or juice first thing in the morning? Coffee.
HiLux, Ranger, Navara, Triton or other? Ford Ranger.
Shorts in winter, yes or no? Yes, though as the years go on, the more I tend to feel the cold.
MAFS, Love Island or 7.30? None.
Draught or craft? Draught.