How to Become an Engineer via an Apprenticeship Pathway
The field of engineering is as broad as it is exciting. This line of work combines problem-solving with innovation and real-world applications. Engineering touches nearly every aspect of our lives — from the buildings we work in, to the machines we use daily.
Australia has a high demand for engineers with hands-on experience and practical trade skills.
Interested in becoming an engineer, but you prefer to learn through practical experience instead of sitting in a classroom? Pursuing an engineering apprenticeship may be the best move to take.
Pursuing an Engineering Apprenticeship
For those who want to build a career in engineering, apprenticeships offer the best of both worlds: on-the-job training and formal education. As you work with experienced professionals and tradespeople, you will also complete courses via a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to build a solid foundation and improve your technical knowledge.
Throughout your apprenticeship, expect to gain essential skills that include:
- Reading, interpreting, and implementing technical drawings and blueprints
- Using a variety of specialised workshop tools and machinery
- Welding and metal fabrication
- Installing, repairing, and maintaining mechanical systems
- Operating computer-aided design (CAD) software
- Drafting technical diagrams and engineering plans
- Understanding and implementing workplace safety and high-quality standards
Explore Engineering Apprenticeship Specialisations
Depending on your interests and strengths, there are various apprenticeships that can help you pursue a more specialised field.
Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship
Mechanical engineering is the study of objects and systems in motion, and mechanical engineers are the people who figure out how to design, build, and create machines and systems that work efficiently and safely.
A mechanical engineering apprenticeship focuses on working with engines, pumps, mechanical systems, and industrial machinery. In taking Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade, you’ll learn how to maintain and repair everything from conveyor belts to various types of manufacturing equipment.
Fabrication Apprenticeships (Heavy and Light)
Unlike mechanical specialisations that focus on designing or maintaining existing machinery, fabrication apprenticeships teach you how to shape and build metal structures through welding, cutting, and forming.
A Certificate III in Engineering—Fabrication Trade (Heavy) is the pathway to take for aspiring boiler makers. It focuses on several aspects of engineering fabrication, such as metal handling, welding, metal polishing, and structural steel erection.
On the other hand, Certificate III in Engineering — Fabrication Trade (Light) covers essential tasks for shaping and assembling components made from light metals. It is the certification to pursue if you want to become a sheet metal worker.
Engineering Drafting Apprenticeship
If you’re more detail-oriented and have an affinity for design, engineering drafting is a great place to start. A Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting will help you learn how to produce digital models and technical drawings that bring engineering concepts to life.
You will assist with planning, working with CAD software, and preparing documentation that will be used for construction and manufacturing.
Why Doing an Engineering Apprenticeship is a Great Idea
Apart from setting you up for long-term success and excellent potential for leveling up your career, here’s why an engineering apprenticeship is a smart move:
- Earn while you learn. In apprenticeships, you earn wages from day one while acquiring qualifications that will help further your career.
- Learn from industry experts. You work alongside experienced tradespeople and engineers who can show you how the job is done. With their guidance, you can learn important hands-on skills, ask valuable questions, and use proper engineering tools and equipment more effectively.
- Get nationally recognised qualifications. After completing your engineering apprenticeship, you get qualifications that are recognised across Australia. These credentials can open doors of opportunities that will help further your career.
- Experience a smoother path to full-time work. Depending on performance, apprentices can land full-time roles with their host employers after completing their training. By the time you finish the apprenticeship, you will know about the systems, the team, the company standards, etc., and employers will love that.
- Meet the strong demand for trade-qualified engineers. Skilled tradespeople are in demand in Australia, especially in areas like mechanical maintenance, drafting, and fabrication.
How Starting an Engineering Apprenticeship Works
- Apply for an apprenticeship — Check our current job openings and submit your application.
- 1300apprentice connects you with a host employer — You don’t need to look for an employer on your own. Our team will match you with an engineering company or contractor that suits your qualifications and goals.
- 1300apprentice enrols you in an accredited training program — Engineering apprenticeships involve both practical work and theoretical study. We will guide you through the process and organise your training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
Build Your Future in Engineering Through Hands-on Experience
If a rewarding and practical career in engineering is what you’re after, there’s no better time than now to pursue it. An engineering apprenticeship through 1300apprentice can set you on a solid path toward your desired specialisation — from machine work to design plans to build the next big project.
Contact us today and learn more about how we can best support your career.
