Tony Cohen
Director, UK Power Networks
Erin Gibson
Apprentice, UK Power Networks
The way we use electricity is changing, and a network operator is running award-winning apprenticeships to train more than 50 recruits every year to help run safe and reliable power supplies.
Erin’s UK energy story
Dreams are coming true for 18-year-old Erin Gibson from Kent. Back in September, she started training as an overhead linesperson with UK Power Networks, which delivers electricity to 8.5 million homes and businesses across London, the East and South East.
Erin says: “I don’t like office jobs. I would rather be doing something active. As an overhead linesperson, I will climb the poles and fix the wires that bring power to people. It will be good to do a role where I’m helping the community. If I can do it, others can too, but they need to have motivation.” She adds: “It’s a good company, and it feels different. The leaders are approachable, and I made friends instantly.”
No career limits in UK energy
As the UK’s energy industry upskills its workforce to cater for a net zero future, UK Power Networks trains apprentices to help future-proof its business with new cable jointers, substation fitters and overhead linespeople. Across the last five years, 96% of apprentices gained full-time jobs with the company, and 21% were promoted within three years of qualifying.
Director of safety, technical training and facilities Tony Cohen started as an apprentice in 1974. He says: “This programme supports an outstanding pipeline of talent to maintain excellent performance for our customers, and there’s really no limit to what people can achieve. It is ideal for team players with bundles of motivation who prioritise safety and high standards, enjoy problem-solving, manual work and working outdoors.”
In 2024, UK Power Networks
won two awards and a Highly
Commended for its apprenticeships.
Agenda to level up
The company was the first of its type to sign up to the ‘Levelling Up’ agenda. Moreover, in response to the cost of living crisis and UK unemployment, it ran a second cohort of its award-winning ‘Power Among Us’ programme to offer unique access for young people who might never have considered an energy career before. The month-long programme is one of a series of initiatives providing tailored work experience for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
In 2024, UK Power Networks won two awards and a Highly Commended for its apprenticeships. It was also named ‘#2 Best Big Company to Work for in the UK’ and ‘#1 Inclusive Top 50 Employer.’
Recruiting now
As Britain’s biggest electricity network operator, the firm is seeking 57 new apprentices this year. Half will be career changers; the rest will typically be straight from school.
Applications are open until March 16 for people planning to leave school or college this year. If you are interested, you can apply using the link.
