A group of Hunter high school students took their first step into a trade career last week, experiencing life inside one of the Hunter region’s key manufacturing hubs.

Run in partnership with HunterNet Career Connections and the NSW Department of Education’s Regional Industry Education Partnerships Program, the event brought together female students from years 9 and 10 to explore career opportunities in the electrical manufacturing sector.

Students toured the Hexham site and workshops, met local team members, and heard directly from apprentices and employees through a panel discussion. They also took part in a hands-on activity designed to help them experience what a day as an electrical apprentice could look like.

“Giving students a chance to see and try the work for themselves is invaluable,” said Ben Wallace, Workforce Development Coordinator, HunterNet Career Connections. “It also opens their eyes to the opportunities that exist right here in the Hunter.”

“Days like this give students a window into the industry and the chance to picture themselves in it. That’s how interest grows and how the Hunter keeps building its talent pool for the future.”

Downer currently employs more than 500 people from across the Hunter, including 22 apprentices. Hexham is one of the region’s key industrial bases, supporting mechanical and electrical shutdowns, turnarounds, and outage services across critical operations such as Bayswater Power Station, Port of Newcastle, Port Waratah Coal, Tomago Aluminium, Orica, and NCIG. It is also a key manufacturing and distribution hub for bespoke switchboards to large-scale transportable switchrooms

As a patron member of HunterNet, Downer continues to invest in building local talent pipelines and strengthening career pathways into skilled jobs.

“Many of the Hunter’s best tradespeople began their careers here at Downer. By opening our doors, we hope students see a future for themselves in a secure and rewarding trade career – while helping ensure these vital skills remain in the local community,” said Liam Parker, Manufacturing Manager, Downer.

“Days like this give students a window into the industry and the chance to picture themselves in it. That’s how interest grows and how the Hunter keeps building its talent pool for the future.”