“Fresh out of earning my certificate in Electrotechnology, I was drawn to Hydro Tasmania’s apprenticeship program because of the range of opportunities it offered. The first interview took place at Trevallyn Power Station, and it was my first time ever inside a power station. It was an unforgettable experience!” says Katrina.

When Katrina joined Hydro Tasmania as part of the apprenticeship program, she was 19 and stepping into her first full-time job. She tells us that although it was a bit intimidating at first, being in a traditionally blue-collar, male-dominated space, she has built strong relationships across the teams. “During our induction in Hobart, there were four electrical apprentices—three of us were female—which was great to see.”

Katrina says that the apprenticeship gave her unbeatable real-world experience that is complemented by the TAFE training which is provided as part of the program.  “The Hydro Tasmania apprenticeship program has given me a meaningful career path, a supportive community, and a chance to be part of something bigger right here in Tassie.”

The passion for renewable energy and making a difference right here in Tasmania was a big part of Katrina’s decision to apply for the apprenticeship program.

“There’s something uniquely exciting about working in the energy sector and especially with Hydro Tasmania. We get to interact with some of the most impressive and historic equipment in Australia, right in our own backyard. I’m especially excited to continue learning from operators who’ve been in the industry for decades. I want to soak up as much knowledge as I can from people like them.”

Since completing her apprenticeship, Katrina has spent a year working as a Generation Technician before recently stepping into a new role as a Trainee Power Station Operator. Katrina’s new role includes the opportunity to be mentored by seasoned operators and learning the ins and outs of each station.

“One of the things I value most about working at Hydro Tasmania is that we’re encouraged to be proactive in shaping our career paths and there’s a strong culture of trialling different roles to find the right fit. If you’re open and willing to put yourself out there, opportunities come your way. That openness has already taken me to some amazing sites across Tasmania.”

Katrina is part of a larger team that responds to faults and coordinates closely with other trades and maintenance teams. Whilst routine maintenance is also a big part of what the team regularly does.

Katrina is also passionate about supporting other women to apply for an apprenticeship with Hydro Tasmania.

“I’m involved in career programs through the Beacon Foundation and Hydro Tasmania’s Girls in Power, and it was a real highlight to see students from my old high school attend a session last year. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to leave Tasmania to find a fulfilling and exciting career.”  

“Recently, I had the chance to take a group of vacation students on a tour and they were blown away by the history and the scale of it all. It’s something I take great pride in sharing with friends, family, and even curious members of the public, like local fishermen who often stop by for a chat.”

Looking ahead, Katrina is interested in exploring the different roles that Hydro Tasmania can offer her as she learns more.

“I’m staying open to possibilities, continuing to learn, and grateful to be working somewhere that values growth and collaboration."

Want to be part of something bigger like Katrina? Find out about our apprenticeships.