Among The Lines Company’s latest intake of trainee line mechanics are, from left, Anaru Etana and Robert (Himona) Knowles, both of Taumarunui.
Taumarunui men Anaru Etana and Himona Knowles, have joined the latest Lines Company intake of trainee line mechanics in the scheme’s eighth year of operation.
The general manager of TLC service delivery, Jared Murrell, said the trainee programme was important not only for the network business, but also for the ongoing success of the community.
“We’re here to operate a safe and reliable network, but it’s more than that.
“We’re an important local employer and we see training and upskilling of local people as part of the role we play in the region,” Jared said.
“Building up our team at Taumarunui with additional trainees will help ensure electricity supply to the area remains solid, and in the process, we’re helping to develop local talent as our trainees earn, learn and grow on the job.”
Himona took up the opportunity to train to be a line mechanic having spent time working in the water services, meat processing and forestry sectors.
An avid rugby player and outdoorsman, Himona said he had great family support behind him as he aimed to achieve his goal of becoming a qualified line mechanic.
“I’ve wanted to be a line mechanic since I was at high school, and I had applied a couple of times and got a foot in the door this year.
“My five kids and wife are right behind me and my first week was pretty busy because of Cyclone Gabrielle.
“I was out there cutting tree branches and watching trained crews’ complete repairs.
“That week, I got to go all over the network area, saw poles and lines down and was shocked at the damage I saw.
“There’s a lot to learn from the field crews and I’m looking forward to picking up the lingo and learning a heap of new skills,” Himona said.
Second trainee, Anaru, joined TLC following a four-year stint working in the forestry sector.
“I heard about the opportunity through word of mouth,” he said.
“I was looking for a long-term career opportunity and I was looking for a company which would help me progress my career.
“I see lots of opportunities at TLC, with options to learn a range of skills, and I’m really looking forward to getting a trade under my belt. The team at TLC is awesome and I love the culture.”
The company is looking to recruit a further five trainees this year.
