A Confident Career Change

Alice Clarke has no regrets about leaving her hospitality job to begin an electrical apprenticeship.

“It’s the best decision I’ve ever made,” the 20‑year‑old said. “It’s given me more freedom, rather than feeling tied to the chaos and customers at the pub.”

The Jindabyne local had considered a trade career for some time. Although hospitality kept her busy, the idea never went away. With friends working in construction and a partner who is a plumber, the move felt like a natural next step.

As a result, Alice focused her efforts on a business she already knew well, Porter’s Power & Electrical Solutions.

Persistence Pays Off

“I didn’t stop nagging them for about a year,” Alice admitted. “I was pretty persistent.”

That persistence soon paid off. After completing a period of work experience, Alice showed strong interest and a clear willingness to learn. Because of this, the team offered her an electrical apprenticeship.

With support from Mas National, part of the IntoWork Group, Alice formalised her apprenticeship and settled into the role quickly.

Thriving in a Male‑Dominated Trade

Importantly, Alice felt no hesitation about entering a male‑dominated industry.

“A lot of people were saying ‘good luck with that’ or ‘I can’t believe you’re a girl going into that’,” she said. “However, the amount of support I get from the guys on site has been enormous.”

While some tasks require brute strength, Alice believes she brings her own strengths to the role.

“I might not always match the boys for strength,” she said, “but I have an eye for detail that they don’t. That’s definitely an advantage.”

Looking Ahead

Now working across solar, residential, commercial and automation projects, no two days are the same. In particular, solar has become a favourite. At the same time, Alice has begun training through NECA, which has opened her eyes to the scope of the trade.

“It’s exciting,” Alice said. “There’s so much to learn, and every day is different. It’s been eye‑opening to see how much there is to this industry. I’m really keen to explore other areas in the months and years ahead.”