Most of us don’t give the electricity network much thought. You flick a switch, the lights come on and everyone gets on with their day.
But behind that very ordinary moment is a huge network of substations, cables, equipment and people working to keep homes, schools, businesses and hospitals powered.
Kate Campbell is one of those people.
As a first-year substation electrician apprentice with CitiPower Powercor, she’s learning how to build and maintain the infrastructure communities rely on every day. It’s hands-on, highly technical and, according to Kate, rarely predictable.
So, What Does a Substation Electrician Do?
CitiPower Powercor operates electricity distribution networks, helping deliver power to homes and communities across Victoria.
Substations are a key part of that system. They help keep electricity flowing safely through the network, so what happens inside really does matter. No pressure.
As an apprentice, Kate works alongside experienced tradespeople while building her own practical knowledge and skills.
“I wouldn’t say two days look the same,” she says.
“One day I could be installing electrical equipment or running cables, and another day I might be testing or carrying out maintenance.”
There are new locations, new tasks and new people to learn from, which is one of the things Kate enjoys most about the role.
From Construction Safety to the Tools
Kate didn’t begin her career with plans to become an electrician.
Before joining CitiPower Powercor, she worked in health and safety on large construction projects. It was there that the electrical side of the work started catching her attention.
“I always found the electrical aspects of those projects quite fascinating,” she says.
When she decided she was ready for a career change, she knew she wanted to move into a trade. Electricity distribution felt like the right fit.
The hands-on work and constant learning were big drawcards, but there was something else behind the decision too. Kate wanted to work on something that would last.
“The work that we do and the stuff that we work on has been around for decades,” she says.
“It’s something that we need every day. You power homes, you power communities and you’re part of something that everyone can benefit from.”
There’s something pretty satisfying about finishing a day’s work knowing it contributes to infrastructure that could remain in use for generations.
A Much Bigger Job Than It Looks
Since beginning her apprenticeship, Kate has gained a new appreciation for what it takes to keep an electricity network running safely and reliably.
Before entering the industry, she understood that electricity was essential. What she hadn’t seen was the level of planning, engineering and teamwork happening behind the scenes.
For Kate, that’s been one of the biggest eye-openers.
The work isn’t only about keeping the lights on at home. Electricity networks support hospitals, businesses, schools and essential services across entire communities.
And keeping everything working doesn’t happen by accident. It takes people from different trades, technical backgrounds and areas of expertise working together.
“It’s made me realise just how much people rely on us every day,” Kate says.
Learning From Decades of Experience
For Kate, one of the best parts of the apprenticeship is knowing there’ll always be more to learn.
Electrical networks continue to change as technology develops and communities grow. Even experienced workers need to keep building their knowledge.
“There’s a bit of a saying that if you think you know everything, you probably don’t,” Kate says.
She gets to work with people from a range of backgrounds, including team members who have spent 20 or 30 years in the industry. Hearing how the network has changed throughout their careers gives her a different perspective on both its history and where it may be heading next.
Those conversations are an important part of learning the trade. Technical training matters, of course, but so does listening to people who’ve seen the network evolve firsthand.
Thinking About an Electrical Apprenticeship?
Kate’s advice for anyone thinking about an apprenticeship? Keep it simple.
“Just go for it.”
You don’t need to arrive knowing everything. Apprenticeships exist so you can learn, and asking questions is part of the deal.
Kate believes attitude and work ethic can make an enormous difference. Show up ready to contribute, take pride in your work and don’t hide when something goes wrong.
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes, but most importantly, don’t be afraid to speak up when you make those mistakes,” she says.
“That’s how you learn.”
She also recommends getting to know the people around you, taking initiative and stepping outside your comfort zone when opportunities come up.
Technical skills can be taught. Being willing to listen, put in the effort and keep learning is what helps you stand out.
Bring that mindset, Kate says, and there’s no shortage of places an electricity distribution career could take you.
Build a Career That Keeps Things Running
Kate’s story is a good reminder that choosing a career doesn’t lock you into one direction forever.
Her interest in electrical work began while she was already working in another part of the construction industry. She followed that curiosity, made a career change and is now building practical skills in a field that supports millions of everyday moments.
For anyone considering a trade, it’s proof that you don’t need to have the whole path mapped out before taking the first step.
Find Your Place at CitiPower Powercor
From apprenticeships to technical and professional roles, there are plenty of ways to build a career that keeps communities connected.
Explore careers with CitiPower Powercor here.
