Nominations are now open for the ElectroComms Contracting Foundation’s 2012 post-apprenticeship scholarship program which is designed to help individuals starting out in the electrical and communications industry to further their knowledge and career prospects.

The ElectroComms Contracting Foundation, which is an initiative of the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) together with industry leaders and supporters, was set up to enhance the ability of the industry to face the challenges of the future in a positive and profitable fashion and the annual scholarship program plays a vital role in helping to develop the potential of future generations of electricians entering the industry.

NECA national operations manager Vicky Rigler says, “NECA is proud to once again be supporting the work of the ElectroComms Contracting Foundation as we open the nominations for the 2012 Post-Apprenticeship Scholarships.

“The scholarships are specifically designed to assist the development of managerial skills, however, other areas of study or training will be considered, especially emerging technologies.”

Previous winners have received funding to undertake a wide variety of courses, including management and project management, but at a minimum the course must be equal to or higher than a Certificate IV.

To be eligible applicants need:
• High quality trade skills
• Excellent college results
• First-class performance in the workplace
• A high interest in and understanding of the industry
• A willingness to promote the industry.

The proposed further study must also either enhance management skills designed to produce more efficient, productive and competitive businesses or technical skills to enable the business to compete in a marketplace where design and innovation are highly regarded.

The scholarships are designed to contribute towards the costs of further tuition following the completion of an electrical apprenticeship and the maximum scholarship amount is $2000 per year for a maximum duration of four years.

Courses must be commenced by December 2013 and applications close on 30 November 2012.

More information and applications forms can be obtained at http://www.neca.asn.au/index.php/electrocomms_foundation/post‐apprenticeship_scholarships/