Introduction

For many young people, choosing a career path after school can feel overwhelming. Apprenticeships offer a practical way to gain nationally recognised qualifications while building real-world skills and earning an income. For Zara Engstrom and Samuel Ahern-Whybrow, an electrical apprenticeship with GLS Electrical has provided the opportunity to turn their ambitions into reality.

The Challenge

Australia’s demand for skilled electricians continues to grow as industries and communities rely on increasingly complex electrical infrastructure. At the same time, aspiring tradespeople often face challenges when entering the workforce, from finding the right employer to navigating the financial pressures that can come with training.

For Zara, finding a trade that aligned with her interests was always the goal.

“I always knew I wanted to do a trade apprenticeship,” she said. “It wasn’t until the end of school that I decided electrical was the path I wanted to take.”

Samuel had a similarly clear vision for his future.

“A mate and I always planned to do our electrical apprenticeship together,” Samuel said. “He ended up choosing a different direction, but I knew this was what I wanted to do and stuck with it.”

Like many apprentices beginning their careers, both were looking for an opportunity that would provide hands-on experience, professional guidance and long-term career prospects.

The Solution

GLS Electrical offered exactly that opportunity.

GLS Electrical operates across the commercial, industrial and government sectors. The company delivers professional electrical contracting, preventative maintenance and critical power solutions throughout the ACT, NSW and Queensland.

GLS Electrical employs 39 people in the ACT and places a strong focus on workforce development. Apprentices learn from experienced professionals and build their skills in a supportive environment.

The Results

They will receive ongoing mentoring and guidance from experienced tradespeople while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. The opportunity also allows them to contribute to an industry that supports critical infrastructure and essential services across multiple states.

Mas National ACT Manager Sue Black said apprenticeships continue to play an important role in building Australia’s future workforce.

“It’s fantastic to see young people choosing a trade pathway and securing opportunities with an employer like GLS Electrical,” Sue said. “They are joining a company that values its people and is committed to developing the next generation of skilled electricians.”

Conclusion

Apprenticeships create opportunities for individuals while helping businesses address growing skills demands. Pathways like those undertaken by Zara and Samuel bring together motivated apprentices, supportive employers and government-backed initiatives. Together, they help strengthen Australia’s skilled workforce for the future.

The 2026 National First Year Experience Survey from Apprenticeship Support Australia highlights why this support matters. The survey found that strong mentoring, quality supervision and regular support are among the most important factors influencing retention, reinforcing the value of employers such as GLS Electrical and organisations like Mas in helping apprentices succeed through their first year and beyond.

At Mas, supporting apprentices extends beyond sign-up day. Through regular contact with apprentices and employers, ongoing mentoring, and early intervention when challenges arise, Mas helps apprentices access the support they need to remain engaged, continue their training and work towards successful completion.

For Zara and Samuel, this is only the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With the right support, they can build the skills, confidence and experience needed for a rewarding career in an essential and growing industry.