A speedy chance to spark a connection

A dozen pre-trade electrical learners got the opportunity to try and sell themselves to local employers during a recent “speed dating” meetup on campus.

The Spark a Connection event was a way of helping the Otago Polytechnic-EarnLearn students make connections, while providing a supportive space to test their broader skills as they move into the industry.

Organiser Tabitha Bettis from EarnLearn Otago says it gave the NZ Certificate in Electrical Pre-Trade (Level 3) learners a chance to practice their interview skills, build confidence, and explore potential pathways into electrical apprenticeships.

“So knowing how to conduct themselves, how to dress, how to answer the questions they might get from employers, and get feedback on their CV and cover letter.”

She says while a pre-trade student might be the best worker, if they can’t showcase that or impress an employer they could miss out on the best opportunities.

“Electrical is also a very customer-based industry too, going out into people’s homes and businesses.

“So they’ve got to know how to communicate with people and how to conduct themselves and be respectful when they’re meeting people face to face,” says Tabitha.

For the local employers, it was a chance to meet young people keen to enter the industry.

“We’re so grateful they gave up their time up to do this.

“It means the next round of apprentices coming through are being supported, which is brilliant,” she says.

Local companies supporting the Spark a Connection event were Aotea Electric, Energy Services Dunedin, Greenlight Electric, Mitre 10 Mega, OceanaGold, Powernet, Setpoint, Redpaths, Tansley Electrical, along with Delta and Sam I Am Electrical (online).

Two electrical apprentices who've come through the Otago Polytechnic-EarnLearn programme were also on hand to share their experiences and answer questions from the pre-trade learners.

Caitlin Hand (Aotea Electric) recently won the Otago Domestic category at the 2026 Trade Master Apprentice Challenge.

She says being able to relate well to clients is one of the most important parts of the job.

“Employers often pick people based on their potential. So if a person doesn't have that, they're going to struggle to get a job.”

“Admittedly I'm a very shy person and I still get nervous going into people’s homes by myself.  But I’ve learned how to talk to clients, how to put on a friendly persona,” says Caitlin.

Fellow apprentice Daniel Joint (Dalco Electrical) agrees that good presentation skills are essential in getting your foot in the door.

“With employers, they want to see a bit of initiative, especially in an apprentice,” he says.

“It’s okay if you’re still building your skills.. That's what they're for, to teach us.

“But if you can put on a smile and a good handshake, it goes a long way with employers.”